Ershte Hilf Hosts Appreciation Event

By Idy Perl

 Last night Ershte Hilf of New Suare held an event to thank local first response teams for working with the community, providing assistance during large events, and always ensuring the safety of local residents.

Leadership from Ramapo Police, Rockland County Sheriff, Rockland County Emergency Management, Spring Hill EMS, and the Hillcrest Fire Department were in attendance. Rafi Silberberg was present to represent Congressman Mike Lawler, and Mordy Becker was in attendance to represent Bill Weber.

The event was emceed by Yoel Hersh Fuchs, who spoke about the amazing work that Ershte Hilf does for the community.

New Square Mayor Izzy Spitzer was honored at the event for his advocacy for the organization and the community, and especially for securing a grant from former state senator Elijah Melnick for a new emergency response vehicle that is used for road assistance and in various emergency situations. The mayor delivered a speech praising Ershte Hilf and all the work they do to help residents in the village.

Moshe Kaff, Public Safety coordinator of New Square, thanked the Ershte Hilf volunteers and local law enforcement organizations that work to strengthen their relationship with the community.

“We all remember the large community gathering this past winter, a time of joy and unity for us, but one that required great planning and coordination,” Kaff mentioned during his speech, referencing the recent major hachnasos sefer Torah that took place in Skver.
“I want to take a moment to highlight the way our law enforcement partners stepped up. The professionalism, patience, and support you brought to that event was nothing short of exceptional. You didn’t just “manage a crowd,” you helped us feel secure, respected, and that makes all the difference.”

Rockland County Sheriff Lou Falco delivered a speech about the excellent long-term relationship the Sheriff's department has with New Square and Ershte Hilf. Ramapo Police Chief Daniel Hyman spoke as well, and said that when he began his police career, he didn’t know a lot about New Square, but as time went on New Square became not only a professional partnership, but a personal relationship.

Ershte Hilf then honored a group of current members for their exceptional work, and presented all members with an expensive tool kit that included lockout equipment that they can use when responding to calls.