Families with sick loved ones spent a magical afternoon aboard a luxury cruise ship on the Hudson River, where they experienced a much-needed dose of joy and entertainment.
On Sunday, June 24, hundreds of attendees strode down the Paulas Hooks Marina in Jersey City to the sounds of dozens of volunteers singing and dancing. The brightly decorated boat and lavish hot buffet welcomed the families as the live music brought the dance floor to life. The gorgeous weather and incredible view from the decks set the backdrop for the feelings of excitement and exhilaration in the air.
Each family was treated to a special family photo shoot by Magnet Memory, which graciously provided services to Misameach free of charge, before they continued on to enjoy a host of games, activities, gifts, and treats to the delight of the children. Crafts, clowns, balloon art, and more were supervised by amazing, dedicated volunteers who went out of their way to make each child feel special.
Superstar entertainers Avraham Fried, Benny Friedman, Yehuda Green, Uncle Moishy, and Dudi Knopfler took to the stage and had the crowd dancing and singing along to the energizing music played by Mendy Hershkowitz and the Sababa Band, with Moishy Zuckerman and Chezky Levi manning the sound.
The singers, clowns, and jugglers came up to the families lounging on the decks, putting on private performances and kumzitses for them. Gift packages containing a variety of toys and games were distributed to all families.
A surprise special appearance was made by the NYPD, arranged for Misameach by the Jersey Chaplains Association.
Volunteers and children sang and danced the afternoon away, smiles transforming their faces as they were swept up in the warmth, love, and joy that is the Misameach family. The magic that was created there will continue to reverberate in the hearts of each passenger for many years to come.
