The Dating Resources Network was founded about two and a half years ago to help those navigating shidduchim. It started as a simple hotline to help guys plan their dates and guide them to the proper venue. While dealing with so many young men, we realized a sore lack of resources available for those dating, and shortly thereafter we opened our dating gemachs. While many organizations focus on suggesting shidduchim, the complicated logistics of shidduch dating were largely ignored. Today, our hotline guides over 4,000 dates each year, and our national network of 12 gemachs is used over 18,000 times annually.
While helping so many boys, and being involved in so many shidduchim, we came to understand that many families were being crushed by the high costs of shidduch dating. A simple first date can cost upwards of $160 after the costs of a rental car, gas, tolls, and parking, let alone later dates that entail restaurants and activities.
There are families that struggle to give a yes, as they simply cannot afford it. These families struggle to pay the grocery bill. Paying for their sons' dates is simply out of reach.
The financial aid program seeks to alleviate that stress. All applicants are thoroughly vetted through rabbanim before being added to our program. Once they are approved, they can plan a date properly without stressing about finances and can focus on the important decisions in front of them.
B'h since launching our financial aid program last August, we have helped pay for hundreds of dates and numerous engagements, with our budget for financial aid alone coming to more than $15,000 each month.
But we cannot do it alone. Please join us in Shaping Klal Yisroel's future - one date at a time!
