The Baratz boys pay tribute to their mother, Rita Baratz A’H, at the OHEL annual dinner

High-ranking government and elected officials, Rabbinic and business leaders and more than 1,100 members of the community turned out to show their strong support and friendship at OHEL’s 42nd Annual Gala in NYC. It was a spectacular and memorable evening with tributes to the agency’s extraordinary honorees and the children and families OHEL serves.

To pay tribute to extraordinary individuals who help OHEL help our community, the Annual Gala celebrated special OHEL friends and contributors. This year’s Honored Guests were Philip and Lisa Baratz, David and Tzippora Baratz, Michael and Ellen Baratz and Sammy and Rachellie Baratz, in memory of their mother Rita Baratz A’’H who took in so many foster children. Ohel Co-President Moishe Hellman in speaking about Rita Baratz quoted Mrs. Schickman, “Biological children grow in mommy’s tummy, Foster children grow in mommy’s hearts.” Rita’s tireless efforts on behalf of foster children was exemplary.

Dr. Patrick I. Borgen received the Humanitarian Award; Andrew H. Marks and Bruce Tindal of Bollinger Insurance Solutions were Corporate Guests of Honor; and Assemblyman Gary S. Schaer received the Legislator of the Year award.