Volunteers Launch Massive Operation to Host Stranded Uman Travelers for Shabbos

In a remarkable display of community solidarity, Shomrim volunteers from across New York City, joined by Chaverim members, mobilized at JFK Airport on Friday afternoon in a race against the clock to assist hundreds of travelers stranded by severe flight delays on their return from Uman, Ukraine. The passengers, returning from the Rosh Hashanah event at the kever of Rebbe Nachman of Breslov, were at risk of being unable to reach their homes before the start of Shabbos. Last-minute plans were made to host them at Pardes Feiga hall in Williamsburg.

The large-scale logistical effort was led by RNSP (Shomrim of Rockaway and Nassau), which coordinated a swift and organized response to ensure no one was left behind.

“We are here with about 30 volunteers from RNSP—Rockaway and Nassau Shomrim—awaiting the arrival of a plane from Uman,”  the head of RNSP, who was on the ground directing the operation told Belaaz. “The passengers had a very long delay, and we are trying to get them off the plane, onto buses, and get their luggage onto a truck as quickly as possible. The goal is to transport them to a location in Brooklyn so they can all get there on time for Shabbos.”

“We are joined by volunteers from all the other Shomrim branches; Queens, Boro Park, Williamsburg, Crown Heights, Flatbush,” the RNSP head added. “Hopefully, we can make a big Kiddush Hashem and ensure everyone gets to their location safely for Shabbos.”

An emergency plan was enacted to house all the travelers in a central location. Instead of attempting the impossible task of getting each person to their respective home across the tri-state area, a single destination was prepared to welcome them.

“They have no time to go home. They’re all going to one particular location in Williamsburg; the Pardes Feiga wedding hall,” the director explained. “Arrangements have been made for them there; they have already set up beds for everyone. They will have their meals there and will be spending Shabbos in Williamsburg.”