My Extended Family Launches a New Year With Welcome Back Event

by M.C. Millman

My Extended Family, an organization that caters to all single-parent families, held five open house events, including one in Monsey, on Wednesday, August 31.

Wednesday's open house reflected the organization's mission, creating a wholesome, inviting atmosphere conducive to cultivating life-supporting relationships. MEF's goal is to create a loving Extended Family for children from single-parent families. Each carefully planned program led by professionals and volunteers who understand the unique needs of those they serve focuses on the well-being of the children in a safe, welcoming environment. My Extended Family also provides lifeline services and advocacy for the community it serves.

The Monsey branch opened two years ago and is run out of Yeshiva Ohr Reuven and Kehillas Yeshorim of Wesley hills in Forshay. Spearheaded by Levi Muller and community liason Shterny Steinmetz who have provided unconditional support over the years, the weekly kids club for ages six to twelve is now expanding to include a teen branch.

"All parents are heroes," Rabbi Yoseph Vigler shares with Rockland Daily.

"and single family parents are superheroes. We are not here to take on the role of a parent. We are here to be an extended family, like an aunt or an uncle. We are also here to advocate for every single parent and child with love and care to demonstrate that, no matter what, the Jewish community will not let go."