Temple Emanuel
280 May St.
Worcester, MA 01602
(508) 755-1257
www.temple-emanuel.org
Target Groups: Adults, Multi-generational Social Action Program, Elementary School, Middle School, High School, Family Program
The Temple Emanuel SHOFAR Project is a multifaceted, AIDS awareness/action project initiated in September 1994. SHOFAR provides assistance, support, advocacy and education for central Massachusetts individuals who are infected with, affected by, at risk for, or concerned about HIV/AIDS. The SHOFAR Project has attracted approximately 150 volunteers from the congregation who have worked on the wide range of programs in the project.
These programs include planning and arranging baby showers that provide gifts appropriate for the needs of children with pediatric AIDS or children of parents with AIDS; preparing food for a monthly lunch program; establishing an AIDS library and resource center in the temple; participating in an AIDS awareness Shabbat service and a special AIDS Passover Seder; involvement in the AIDS Memorial Quilt program, as well as the Worcester Community AIDS Walk; and involvement of individual temple members as volunteers with AIDS Project Worcester (APW). Volunteers with APW use their professional skills and talents and can also serve as buddies, advocates, and transportation and food bank volunteers. SHOFAR has developed a close-working relationship with AIDS Project Worcester to assure that SHOFAR is meeting the needs of the community's AIDS clientele.
The SHOFAR project is continuing to expand. Plans are being made to staff and serve a monthly communal meal at APW. New education programs and consciousness-raising materials are being developed. Programs geared to the nursery school, religious school, and youth group are being prepared. A fund-raising lapel pin has been created to help sustain the project.
