In the spirit of Tikkun Olam – leaving the world a tad more just than we found it – the Social Action Committee (SAC) invites everyone to join our efforts. Please share your thoughts, energy and interests.
To find information on racial justice resources and more on how the TBS community is responding to this historical moment check out our Commitment to Anti-Racism
Our initiatives include:
Food Drive – Throughout the year, a large basket in the Temple foyer welcomes food donations for those in need. In addition, we distribute empty shopping bags and lists of needed food items on Rosh HaShanah, and then welcome the brimming bags on Yom Kippur. On the High Holidays and year ‘round, SAC members distribute the goods to area food pantries.
Catie’s Closet – A box in the front foyer welcomes clothes and toiletries for homeless and low-income boys and girls ages 4 to 18. Each time the box is full, SAC brings the gifts to a central office in Dracut for distribution to some 54 sites.
Social Justice Shabbat – Every year SAC works with the Rabbi to co-create at least one service with a strong social justice theme.
Assistance for Asylum Seekers – Working with RIM, the Refugee Immigration Ministry, SAC members join other area houses of worship in assisting people seeking asylum. Through this interfaith initiative, we assist with school enrollment for kids, transportation, cell phone access, and food and shelter pending the adults’ receipt of working papers.
Muslim Initiative – SAC has been building relationships with the area Muslim community primarily by engaging in educational programs for kids and adults who are associated with the Malden Mosque and, of course, with TBS.
Shalom School Initiative – Throughout the year, SAC members work with Shalom School teachers to infuse the curriculum with social justice issues.
Annual Christmas Dinner – SAC members coordinate this longstanding TBS tradition of serving Christmas Dinner for area individuals and families, replete with gifts and live music.
Mitzvah Day – On Martin Luther King Jr. Day every January, SAC works with the Melrose Human Rights Commission to ensure community-wide opportunities for service. Kids ages 1 to 101 make cards for patients in a nearby hospital, while TBS serves as a Donation Center that day, collecting books for prisoners, blankets for abused and neglected animals, and magazines for hospital patients.
Conversations Unpacking Whiteness – SAC offers a five (5) week course up to 3 times a year with readings, video clips, discussion, and opportunity for action.
Anti-racism Task Force – In the wake of the murder of George Floyd, 40 people within the greater TBS community gathered to look at ways of dismantling white supremacy and racism. Essentially focusing on education and advocacy, the Task Force consists of 13 committees. View the web page here.
Contact Person: Sue Herz at socialaction@tbsma.org or 781-307-6007