‘Beautiful Memories Gemach’ in New Hyde Park

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Young Israel of New Hyde Park has opened a beautiful Memories Gemach.

The Gemach was created as a labor of love by Dr. Beth and Mark Krieger, in memory of family members Dottie & Sidney Bernstein, Mollie & Samuel Krieger, Mollie & Meyer Steinmetz, and Barbara Krieger.

The Gemach carries only dress clothing, shoes and accessories, from business casual up to formal wear, including tuxedos, evening gowns and wedding gowns. All of the clothing is offered for free to anyone in need.

The name, “Beautiful Memories Gemach” was chosen by Dr. Beth and Mark Krieger because just as they have beautiful memories of family occasions and other simchas, those who will benefit from the Gemach will be able to create beautiful memories of their own in their new clothing.

While the Gemach carries clothing that would be appropriate for a formal event, there is also a practical side to it. They are very well stocked with suits, shirts, ties, slacks, sports jackets, belts and shoes for men, as well as skirts, blouses, dresses, shoes and handbags for women, all of which would be appropriate to wear to work or to religious services.

Mark and Beth Krieger are quick to remind us that they did not do all of this alone. In addition to the support of Young Israel of New Hyde Park, and all those who donated clothing, they had a crew of volunteers — “the Gemacheteers” — who helped transport, sort and display the clothing and staff the Gemach when people come to select clothing.

The official launch of the Gemach was well attended by friends, family, volunteers, Rabbi Lawrence Teitelman along with members of the staff and congregation of Young Israel of New Hyde Park and representatives of 14 local synagogues and JCCs, including Sid Jacobson JCC Engage Jewish Service Corps, Community Synagogue, Congregation Tifereth Israel Glen Cove, Midway Jewish Center, North Shore Jewish Center, Old Westbury Hebrew Congregation, Shelter Rock Jewish Center, Temple Beth Israel Port Washington, Temple Beth Sholom Roslyn, Temple Isaiah of Great Neck, Temple Israel of Great Neck, Temple Judea, Temple Sinai Roslyn and Mid-Island Y JCC.

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