Julianne g. '15

Thank you so much for giving me a welcoming home with a special family that is there for me no matter what!

Growing up in an area with a minimal Jewish community, I always struggled to connect with my Judaism and spirituality.

In 2014, I was approached by Rabbi Daniel and Dalia during my first week of school at a Jewish food festival in Poughkeepsie. I was a little apprehensive at first, but I am beyond glad that I was able to take the first step and allow myself to become a part of the Jewish community that they have created.

During my first and second year at the Culinary Institute, Rabbi Daniel and Dalia welcomed me with open arms and helped me reconnect with my Judaism in so many different ways.

During my second year at the CIA, my father unexpectedly passed away. The Sanoff’s were there for me from the minute I found out about his passing and provided me with a comforting familial atmosphere to grieve while my family in Florida was so far away.

Now, over a year and a half later, the Sanoffs’ still take the time out of their extremely busy schedule to call, text, or email to check up on me and I know that they will always be an important part of my life.  I now attend Torah studies as much as I can and I truly believe that being a part of Chabad has helped me discover my Jewish identity.

Looking back and thinking now, I know that the Sanoffs will always be there for me no matter where I live and what I’m doing.