Sandy Weinbaum, a 75-year-old educator and community leader, has dedicated her life to supporting Jewish families in north-west London through the Jewish Family Centre, the only Jewish contact centre in the UK accredited by the National Association of Child Contact Centres (NACCC). The centre, which began in a modest form around the turn of the millennium, has blossomed into a vital resource for local families seeking a safe and supportive environment.
The inception of the Jewish Family Centre can be traced back to 1999, when the overlap of Christmas and Chanukah highlighted a lack of activities for Jewish children during the holiday season. Weinbaum recalls the struggle to find a suitable location for what would become the “Chanukah Wonderland.” After driving through Golders Green in search of an empty shopfront, she finally secured a space that allowed the community to engage in festive creative activities. The positive response from families confirmed the need for such a venue.
Weinbaum’s commitment to her community is fueled by her passion for helping children. Although she has no formal training in family support work, she brings a wealth of experience and love. “I have a very large family. I have…are you sitting down?…14 children of my own!” she shares. Her journey began with volunteering alongside her husband at the Lubavitch Foundation, where they conducted educational programmes designed for children. Weinbaum credits her inspiration to the Rebbe and the unwavering support of her husband, team members, social workers, and therapists who have contributed to the centre’s success.
Importance of Dedicated Spaces for Jewish Families
Weinbaum emphasizes the necessity of dedicated spaces for Jewish families, particularly in light of rising antisemitism. The Jewish Family Centre offers a place where community members can gather, confident that the environment is respectful of their cultural sensitivities. “Especially with rising antisemitism, more people are looking for a safe place to take their kids to,” she states. The centre also keeps costs reasonable, making it accessible for families during the winter months when indoor activities can be prohibitively expensive.
In addition to providing a safe haven, the centre fosters connections among parents and children. It serves as a wholesome gathering space for families, allowing them to forge friendships and build a supportive community network.
Challenges Facing Modern Families
Weinbaum recognizes the pressing challenges that families face today, particularly the impact of the current cost-of-living crisis. This situation places significant strain on both families and their relationships, making it difficult for parents to meet their children’s needs. Additionally, young people encounter unprecedented pressures from social media, bullying, and anxiety. Weinbaum points out that these issues often remain unaddressed in schools, leading to further complications.
Despite the challenges, Weinbaum finds immense satisfaction in her work. The most rewarding aspect, she explains, is witnessing the transformation of individuals who come to the centre in distress. “When some people first come in here, they’re absolutely broken, at their wits’ end,” she notes. Observing their journey toward rebuilding their lives is a powerful testament to the centre’s impact. As families regain their footing, many express gratitude and independence, stating, “I’ll phone you in the new year,” as they move forward without needing additional support.
Ultimately, Weinbaum’s efforts highlight the resilience of Jewish life within the community. The journey of the Jewish Family Centre reflects a broader movement toward nurturing and sustaining cultural identity amidst contemporary challenges. For those interested in engaging further with the community, the centre offers a free newsletter to keep families informed and connected.
