Kehillat Harlem embodies the values of Abraham and Sarah: a Jewish community that is open, warm, and accessible to all.

When Abraham planted an Eshel—a tamarisk tree—the Midrash teaches that it symbolized the practice of hakhnasat orchim, radical hospitality. Eshel, the rabbis say, stood for achilah (nourishment), shtiyah (refreshment), and leviyah (accompaniment). Today that ancient tree has taken root in Harlem. At Kehillat Harlem, we offer more than just food or prayer—we offer companionship, guidance, and a community ready to walk through life with you.

In order to remain open and accessible to everyone, we need your support.

Over the past few years, Kehillat Harlem has grown tremendously. We now offer weekly Shabbat and holiday services and meals, open our doors for community-led programming, and welcome neighbors into our Shtiebel Café for a cup of coffee, pastry, and conversation.

But growth comes with costs. We are launching this campaign to raise $120,000 so that we can sustain and deepen this work.

Because accessibility is at the core of our mission, most of our programming is subsidized by generous donors like you. Your support helps cover rent, meals, programs, and support—so no one is ever turned away.

With the High Holidays approaching, this need becomes especially urgent. Every year, we rent a larger space so that everyone can join, and we offer tickets on a suggested-donation basis, not a set price. This year’s High Holiday budget alone is $18,000. If we want to keep this open model, we must meet our campaign goal.

Thank you for being part of what makes Kehillat Harlem feel like home.

Your donation nourishes this spirit of hospitality so we can keep the doors open, tables full and our vision a reality:
All Are Welcome. Always.

Kehillat Harlem Open Tent Campaign

An Eshel Grows in Harlem

Team Members