Saluting Local Heroes of The Associated: Rabbi Yechiel Shaffer

June 4, 2021 The Associated

The COVID-19 pandemic has demanded we all make sacrifices. We’ve worn masks, social distanced, postponed simchas and in too many cases, endured unthinkable tragedy.

Despite these hardships, some have looked beyond their personal challenges to help others who are struggling. We’re proud to say that a few of these brave and generous individuals reside in our own Jewish community.

From preparing hundreds of grilled cheese sandwiches to phoning neighbors in order to combat loneliness to helping survivors of domestic violence to making sure our youngest community members can go to school — these are a few local heroes who give us something to kvell about.

The Associated salutes these individuals who have been involved with our Associated system for their dedication and commitment this past year.

Since the pandemic began, Rabbi Yechiel Shaffer, Pikesville Jewish Congregation’s spiritual leader has been lending his support and guidance to survivors of domestic abuse receiving services from CHANA, the Jewish community’s response to abuse.

“They’ve seen an incredible rise in the need [for services] in the community over the last year,” says Rabbi Shaffer. “It’s been amazing to see the thoughtfulness and the dedication of the CHANA professionals.

A CHANA board member, the rabbi says the pandemic has made “a variety of challenges — emotional and practical — more extreme.” He notes that individuals facing abuse can often feel isolated, even in normal times. During the pandemic, the isolation has become even more of a challenge.

“When a CHANA client makes an incredibly brave decision to leave their spouse, having a safe destination is not always so simple, especially during a pandemic,” says Rabbi Shaffer. “Hotels are not readily available. We’ve been able to come up with some creative solutions.”

Rabbi Shaffer has helped CHANA clients in a variety of ways. “In several instances, I’ve been able to offer some spiritual counseling and at times assisted clients in receiving a religious divorce — a get,” he says.

“Leaving a marriage can come with a feeling of spiritual guilt,” says Rabbi Shaffer. “CHANA has turned to me every so often to play a spiritual support role and I feel inspired by these incredibly brave CHANA clients. I am deeply moved by the difficult decisions they often have to make and feel grateful to have supported them in any way I can.”