Campaign for New Building Launched in Milford, CT

On Motzei Shabbos, Shluchim Rabbi Schneur and Chanie Wilhelm of Chabad of Milford and the Hebrew Congregation of Woodmont held a event to kick-off the restoration and building of their new Jewish Center.

A fire destroyed the almost 90-year old Shul back in October, a few days after Simchas Torah. Since then, architectural plans have been drawn to restore the Shul’s previous layout and charm, and to add a lobby, library, fully functional social hall with modern facilities, and an exterior veranda and plaza.

The lobby will house a mini museum of the history of Jews in the Woodmont area, a popular vacation destination for Jews in the CT, NY, and MA areas since the 1900’s.

The kick-off event marked the beginning of the fundraising campaign for the new building. The evening  began with a cocktail hour, a delicious Mediterranean buffet table and desserts, a strolling magician, and music.

Participants also entered a raffle with different prizes donated by local businesses.

Rabbi Schneur Wilhelm addressed the crowd, mentioning how apropos it was that the Torah portion read that day in Shul discusses the very first “kick-off” event for a Jewish building – the Mishkan, and joking that the fundraising effort should be as successful as it was in the desert, when Moshe had to ask the Jewish people to stop bringing donations because they had more than enough.

Following was a presentation of the plans by the architect, Jay Alpert.  He showed the detailed sketches and unveiled the 3D building model.  At the end of the event, the raffle winners were announced and brochures detailing the plans were distributed.

The event was very successful, with several people announcing pledges.

The community is excited at the prospect of having a new Jewish Center which will be able to cater to the growing needs of the community and serve as a venue for the many holiday and social events held throughout the year. To support the building fund, please visit JewishMilford.com.