Sandy Weinbaum, 75, has dedicated her life to supporting Jewish families in north-west London through the Jewish Family Centre, the only accredited Jewish contact centre in the UK by the National Association of Child Contact Centres (NACCC). The centre, founded in the late 1990s, arose out of a need for community engagement during the holiday season, reflecting Weinbaum’s commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for children and families.
The idea for the centre took root in 1999 when Christmas and Chanukah coincided. Weinbaum recalls the lack of activities for Jewish children during this time, stating, “there was literally nothing for Jewish kids to do over the new year period.” With the help of community members, she transformed a rented shopfront in Golders Green into a vibrant “Chanukah Wonderland,” offering wholesome activities that resonated with local families.
Weinbaum’s passion for family support is driven by her own experiences. With a family of 14 children, she has spent over 50 years volunteering, initially running educational programmes with her husband for the Lubavitch Foundation. She credits her inspiration to the Rebbe, the leader of the Chabad-Lubavitch movement, and acknowledges the collective effort of her husband, the dedicated team, social workers, and therapists who have contributed to the centre’s success.
Creating Safe Spaces for Jewish Families
The importance of dedicated spaces for Jewish families cannot be overstated, according to Weinbaum. She emphasizes the need for a community hub that respects Jewish customs, particularly in light of rising antisemitism. “More people are looking for a safe place to take their kids to,” she explains. The centre not only ensures that all food is kosher but also provides a welcoming environment for families seeking connection and support.
In challenging economic times, families face increasing pressures. The ongoing cost-of-living crisis places stress on parents and relationships, making it difficult to fulfill children’s needs. Weinbaum highlights the unique challenges young people encounter today, including the impact of social media, bullying, and anxiety, which schools may not adequately address.
Witnessing Transformation and Resilience
Weinbaum’s motivation stems from witnessing the transformations in individuals who seek help at the centre. She describes the profound change that occurs in some families: “When some people first come in here, they’re absolutely broken, at their wits’ end, and you watch them rebuild themselves and their lives.” She finds joy in seeing these families regain their strength, often expressing gratitude by saying, “I’ll phone you in the new year,” indicating their readiness to move forward independently.
The Jewish Family Centre stands as a testament to the power of community support, offering more than just a space for activities. It fosters relationships among parents and children, helping to build a resilient community. As Weinbaum reflects on her journey, she acknowledges the collaborative effort required to create a thriving environment for Jewish families, ensuring that Jewish life continues to flourish in London.
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