Together with her late husband, Rabbi JJ, Rebbetzin Chave Hecht a”h, founded Camp Emunah in 1953 with the Rebbe’s brocha. 70 years later, tens of thousands of Jewish girls of all backgrounds, from across the USA, Canada and the world have experienced a transformative summer experience. Until she passed away this week, 7 Adar, she was still involved in running the camp. Her sharp mind, amazing memory and attention to the smallest detail were her specialties. She showed love and concern for every child, remembering tiny details about their lives.
Until close to the age of 93, she was still running Camp Emunah, right down to ordering the bread and milk, and even at 95, she made all the large decisions.
“She had 12 children, but always joked that Camp Emunah was her 13th,” says grandson Rabbi Hanoch Hecht, who is the executive director.
She was the mommy of us all!
She was the mommy of us all'' says Baila Rochel Kievman, the director of the junior division and who worked alongside her grandmother. “We have to carry her torch forward and secure her 70 year legacy.” On Sunday, Feb 13th, as shiva ends, her children, grandchildren and thousands of women worldwide are joining together to raise funds in her zchus. “We’re calling on every person who still sees the fruits of Camp Emunah in their own families, years and decades after those memorable summers.
This is not just another campaign, but rather a one-time tribute campaign to the legacy of Rebbetzin Hecht. Camp Emunah means so much to all of us and we ask you to join us.
The campaign funds will help us launch a new camp called “Camp Chave”.
70% of girls receive a scholarship of some kind!
Rabbi JJ’s and Rebbetzin Hecht’s commitment to each child meant that no girl was turned away for financial reasons. Campers from all walks of life and backgrounds were made to feel at home. Today, Camp Emunah gives scholarships worth close to $500,000 every year to families in need.
Why you should give NOW?
Your one time donation will help us launch the project to find a new home for the new Camp Chave, which we will be starting this summer. It will also help us give scholarships to more families in need.
