New Chabad Center Established in Oakland Park, Florida

In the heart of South Florida’s Broward County, the city of Oakland Park is now seeing a Jewish revival with the arrival of Rabbi Sruli and Faigy Mochkin, along with their two daughters.

Located between Inverrary and Fort Lauderdale, Oakland Park is home to a diverse mix of younger and older families, including a strong Russian Jewish population. In recent years, the area has also seen an influx of younger residents.

The Mochkins first visited Oakland Park this past Rosh Hashanah, hosting holiday services and meals in a rented clubhouse that drew dozens of attendees. “As we walked around the city over the holiday, we kept meeting more Jewish people,” Rabbi Mochkin recalled. “We felt there was a real opportunity for growth here.”

They returned for Chanukah and Purim, organizing menorah lightings and community events. Just two weeks later, they made the move to Oakland Park — and quickly got to work.

They began by hosting Shabbat dinners in their home, followed by a Passover Seder that drew nearly 30 guests. Since settling in, Rabbi Mochkin has launched several Torah study sessions with local residents, and the couple has recently announced a monthly Friday night service.

“We’re only getting started,” said Rabbi Mochkin, “and we’re excited to grow together with the community.”