If you’ve passed by HALB during arrival or dismissal, you’ve seen Mr. Shwom smiling, and sometimes even dancing, as he helps children cross the street. Simply helping kids get to and from school makes 84-year-old Fred Shwom happy.
This week, however, an even bigger smile was on his face. An anonymous HALB family bought him his first pair of t’filin! Students gathered in the beis midrash, singing and dancing, as Mr. Shwom put on his very own t’filin for the first time. The students, teachers, and staff then continued to celebrate with a delicious bagel breakfast. Emotions were high and the excitement was palpable throughout the school.
“A few years ago, I had an accident and didn’t know what my future would be,” says Mr. Shwom. “It gave me a whole new outlook on life. Who knew this would happen for me today? I’m overwhelmed.” After 84 years, Mr. Fred Shwom now has his very own set of t’filin to put on every day. Mazal tov!
