Rabbi Sruli Fried, MSW, Director of Chai Lifeline NJ/ PA, presented a crisis response training to 75 teachers at the Oak Street Elementary School in response to several recent tragedies in the Lakewood community. The training, which took place on Monday afternoon at the Oak Street school, provided teachers of affected students with the proper social and psychological tools to support them in the aftermath of tragedy.

“As I listened to Rabbi Fried addressing our guidance counselors in September following the High Point Fires, I realized that our teachers really need to hear the valuable information he shared because, at the end of the day, they’re on the front lines, dealing directly with children who experienced trauma,” said Mr. Joseph Schroepfer, principal of the Oak Street Elementary School. “Over the course of the summer, a total of five children lost a parent, so it was very appropriate to have Rabbi Fried address our teachers at this time.”

Rabbi Fried provided the teachers with valuable guidance, including guidelines on how to reach out to children following a traumatic experience, validating their emotional reactions, and providing them with reassurance that the world is a safe, secure place.

“It was truly inspiring to see the genuine care that the guidance counselors and teachers have shown to their students during this difficult time” said Rabbi Fried. “It’s in challenging times that we see the unity in our community and the care we show each other.”

Chai Lifeline gives more than 5,800 children and families around the world the emotional, social and financial tools to weather the crises and challenges of life-threatening illnesses, chronic diseases and disabilities. Through more than two-dozen, free, year-round programs and services delivered through 12 regional offices and international affiliates, Chai Lifeline brings joy and hope to those impacted by pediatric illness or untimely loss.