We read with concern the letter to the editor titled “Jewish mother stranded with no help.”

Being familiar with the good work and stellar reputation the Chabad Lubavitch of Utah has, and having known Rabbi Benny Zippel for well over a decade, what we read confused us.

We know the Chabad Lubavitch of Utah, and those associated with it, care about all of God’s children and are very involved in the community.

We personally have witnessed Rabbi Benny’s kindness and generosity on many occasions with at-risk populations. He is a man of honor.

Questions surfaced as we read the letter, which seemed to take the Chabad of Utah, Jewish Family Services, and Utahans to task.

For instance, if the physician mentioned in the article had developed enough of a relationship with this elderly woman to invite her to America and to Utah, where he would then provide medical treatment free of charge, would he not also provide a ride if she were stranded? Bus fare? A glass of water?

How could a 77-year-old woman, in ill health, walk seven miles in the summer heat? Was there more to the story perhaps? Did the daughter of this elderly woman — thousands of miles away, receive full disclosure from her aged mother?

We contacted Rabbi Zippel of the Chabad of Utah and learned the following: An elderly woman came to the Chabad claiming to be Shimon Peres’ right-hand adviser. She also said she had lost her purse, and needed to get to Mexico for medical treatment. She requested cash for a Greyhound bus ticket to do so.

The Rabbi at the Chabad told her they would be unable to provide transportation to Mexico, but gave her a drink of water, a bottle of water to take with her, and money for bus fare to Jewish Family Services.

It is at Jewish Family Services where emergency assistance can be obtained. We are less familiar with Jewish Family Services but know of the reputation they have in serving not just the Jewish Community but also those in need from all denominations.

If the letter to the editor is accurate, and assistance was not given, there was a reason. There is always a reason. No doubt there is much to this story we do not yet understand.

As for the people of Utah, we are not perfect, but certainly are known for reaching out and helping those in need.

Utahans per capita, volunteer the most hours of service and give more in charitable donations, than any other state in the union.

We are saddened clarification was not sought from the Chabad Lubavitch of Utah and Jewish Family Services before the letter was written or published.

These are wonderful organizations known to help people of all faiths, especially elderly, ill, Jewish women, stranded in a foreign country.

– Tami Harris, Linda Walton, Utah Valley Ministerial Association, Provo

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