Misaskim ()[ is an American Orthodox Jewish not-for-profit organization that provides services for the care of the dead and the needs and conveniences of mourners in accordance to Jewish law and Jewish custom. Misaskim provides moral support and bereavement assistance to individuals or families, while safeguarding the dignity of the deceased. They assist the bereaved by providing free shiva-related social links and lending religious articles.]
History
Misaskim was founded in Brooklyn in 2004 by a group of Hatzalah (volunteer ambulance) members and other community activists who perceived the need to help families during the painful time when a loved one dies.[Yated, September 22, 2010]
Misaskim was directed by Yankie (Jack) Meyer, one of the organization's founders,
Services
During major catastrophes or accidents with Jewish casualties, Misaskim dispatches a team of volunteers to any location in the United States on a moment’s notice.
Misaskim’s mourners' services provide aveilim (mourners) with necessities, such as low chairs and Torah scrolls, during the week of shiva (mourning).
Care for the dead
Misaskim safeguards the dignity of the deceased by advocating to prevent autopsies and/or cremation, and educating government officials and coroners regarding respect to the Jewish departed.
Mourner's needs
Misaskim provides items needed for observing Shiva after the death of an immediate family member. They provide low chairs, Siddurim, Sefer Torah, folding chairs, guide to the customs of Shiva, and other items, free of charge.
Crisis relief
During disasters or tragedies, Misaskim volunteers clear crime scenes upon request by local law enforcement, find burial plots and arrange for the funeral, when necessary, and assists other Hebrew burial societies, providing sound systems, generator-powered lights for nighttime burials and solving logistical problems in order to arrange a funeral in a timely manner.
Other services
Misaskim reaches out to the orphans of the recently deceased with age-appropriate services, trips, gifts, and counseling, when necessary.
Relationships with other organizations
In 2007, ZAKA announced cooperation with Misaskim, effectively making Misaskim the American branch of the Israeli organization.
See also
External links
