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The following was submitted by Chabad of Wakefield:
On March 3, the community will have a rare and powerful opportunity to hear firsthand from Holocaust survivor Helga Melmed, who will share her story of survival, resilience, and hope.
Hosted by Chabad of Wakefield, this special event will take place at the William E. Endslow Performing Arts Center at Reading Memorial High School, 62 Oakland Road.
At 97 years old, Melmed is among the last living witnesses to the atrocities of the Holocaust. Born in Berlin, her childhood was shattered by Nazi persecution.
At just 5 years old, she was beaten by her school teacher for being Jewish. By 13, she was deported to the Lodz Ghetto, where her father was murdered.
She was later sent to Auschwitz, endured forced labor camps, and survived a brutal death march to Bergen-Belsen. When the British liberated the camp in April 1945, she weighed only 46 pounds and was gravely ill.
Now, she is flying in from Florida for this special evening, determined to share her story so history is never forgotten.
“With antisemitism and hate on the rise, it is more important than ever to listen to survivors while we still can,” said Rabbi Sruly Brook of Chabad of Wakefield, the event’s organizer. “Helga’s story is a reminder of where unchecked hate leads, and why we must stand together as a community against intolerance.”
Adding to the evening’s emotional depth, a violinist will perform the haunting theme from “Schindler’s List,” setting the tone for reflection and remembrance.
“Hate and violence bring only destruction,” Melmed says. “I share my story so people understand where hatred leads and why we must choose kindness instead.”
This event is open to the entire community and is made possible by Chabad of Wakefield and generous corporate sponsors.
Tickets are $18 for adults and $10 for students (ages 14-18). Corporate sponsorship opportunities are available for $1,000, with sponsors receiving recognition on all promotional materials.
Reserve your seat today at www.JewishWakefield.com/tickets or call 781-205-9593.
