Public School Kids Turn Up the Joy for Pesach
Throughout the vibrant days of Chol Hamoed, a remarkable Released Time camp infused the joy and spirit of Pesach into the lives of 150 public school students from across New York City
Well before camp kicked off, Released Time had already set its sights on a meaningful goal: making sure every student could celebrate Pesach properly—with shmurah matzah. Their heartfelt efforts reached over 1,000 students and their families, many of whom rely on this annual gift. “Every year, my family waits for the special gift from Released Time before Pesach,” shared Anna, a mother of two students at P.S. 206. “Our family only eats shmurah matzah at our Seder because of them!”
But this year, Released Time didn’t stop at just matzah—they transformed public school vacation into a warm, vibrant, and unforgettable Jewish experience.
Under the dedicated leadership of Zalmy Davidson, the four-day camp was packed with meaning, fun, and Pesach energy. From the very first morning, Jewish pride filled the air.
Campers began each day with davening in the signature Released Time style—uplifting and familiar—setting a tone of inspiration and focus. Songs of mitzvos and Yiddishkeit echoed throughout the day, energizing both students and staff alike. Even the bus rides became moments of connection as children reviewed Torah subjects such as Ahavas Yisroel and Moshiach, turning travel time into learning time.
As Rabbi Shimon Hecht of the NCFJE Executive Committee summed it up: “The camp was a huge success—helping so many public school students celebrate Pesach, not just by the Seder, but for all eight days.”
One of the camp’s highlights was a fully immersive Krias Yam Suf experience. Far more than a reenactment, this interactive journey helped children truly feel the miracle of Yetzias Mitzrayim and connect deeply with the story of our Exodus.
Campers also enjoyed exciting daily trips to Laser Bounce, Kidz Club, Area 53, and a thrilling scavenger hunt through Crown Heights, culminating with a grand rally at 770. “My school vacation was so fun this year!” said Avraham, one camper from Queens. “Every day of camp was a blast and full of joyful good memories!”
Care for each child extended far beyond programming. Every day, a full Pesach-style breakfast and warm lunch were served, thanks to the generosity of Reb Moshe Rubashkin and Reb Chaim Piekarski—ensuring every camper was nourished and ready to thrive.
Remarkably, nearly 10% of campers attended on full scholarship, thanks to the kindness of generous supporters. Their tzedakah created life-changing opportunities for children who otherwise wouldn’t have been able to participate.
The camp gave 150 children a joyful, meaningful, and lasting connection to their Yiddishkeit—one that will continue to inspire them for days to come.
Released Time extends heartfelt thanks to Camp Director Zalmy Davidson for his exceptional leadership. Special appreciation goes to head counselors Boruch Okunov, Yissachor Wilansky, Mendel Roth, and Mendel Niasoff, and to dedicated staff members Rabbi Levi Jaffe, Yisroel Gurarie, Mendel Backman, Yossel Backman, Mendel Spielman, Yehoshua Slavin, Menachem Levy, Meir Levy, Sholom Rivkin, and Zalmy Engel.
Released Time is especially grateful to BJCC—and to Rabbi Wolovik and Rabbi Vaknin—for hosting the boys’ division. And to the Sephardic Jewish Center for hosting the girls’ division, and to President Jil Dana, Vice President Yochanan, and Rabbi Semakov for their outstanding support and warm hospitality.
Released Time stands as the flagship program of the National Committee for the Furtherance of Jewish Education.
