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For information about Bet Ha'am's Social Action Committee and social action activities, please visit the synagogue's website and Facebook page and read the newsletter and weekly e-updates. We are discontinuing posts on this blog.

Sunday, January 30, 2011

“In the Shelter of Each Other: A Special Social Action Shabbat”

The Social Action Committee of Congregation Bet Ha’am presents “In the Shelter of Each Other” a special Social Action Shabbat service focusing on the needs of Maine families who are struggling financially and how we can help.

Join us on March 4 at 7:30 p.m. at Bet Ha’am (81 Westbrook St., South Portland) for special prayers, songs and a brief talk by Christine Hastedt, co-founder and public policy director of Maine Equal Justice.

During the oneg, representatives from several nonprofit programs serving low-income Mainers will provide information about how you can get involved. This is a great opportunity for young people to learn about Mitzvah projects, and for all of us to find ways that we can help our neighbors.

You’ll leave inspired, fired up and singing the chorus of a beautiful song by Kim and Reggie Harris: “In the shelter of each other, we are hopeful, we are wise.”


Everyone attending the March 4 service is requested to bring canned goods to donate to a local food pantry.  Here is a list of needed items:
  • Non-perishable food items, especially high-protein items such as tuna and peanut butter and things that are regularly stocked such as mac and cheese, tomato or chicken noodle soup, pasta and sauce, pancake mix and cereal.
  • Toiletry items.
  • Diapers.
  • Reusable food containers.

Thursday, January 13, 2011

Community Conversation and March Against Governor's Anti-Immigrant Executive Order

Last week, Maine became less welcoming to immigrants and refugees when Governor Paul LePage signed an executive order allowing state officials to inquire about immigration status of those who approach their agencies. Our nation and state have always been beacons of liberty and freedom. Nobody should freeze to death, starve to death, fail to get healthcare, or be afraid to report crimes because of fear of state officials.   

Let’s model a Welcoming Maine
What: Community Conversation at 1pm followed by a March at 2pm
Where: Preble Street Resource Center, March from there to City Hall
Who: At City Hall at 2:15pm, come hear community leaders speak about ways to take action.

In the tradition of community action on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we will stand in solidarity and model a welcoming Maine.