ShalomNewYork.com

“Obviously, each wedding has its own price structure, as there are differences not only in menu and numbers of portions,” comments Schuster, “but Simchat Tzion often needs to account for special circumstances, considering the needs of each individual case.” Still, Schuster estimates the average wedding costs about $3,700, and the organization often sponsors multiple weddings in a single night. It has branched out to include additional caterers, who all give a discount when they hear of Simchat Tzion’s incredibly noble and altruistic work. To date, Simchat Tzion has made over 2,000 weddings, but there are still people in need that they must turn away because of financial reasons. A grant committee (working on a completely voluntary basis) determines whether or not the applicant meets the economic criteria set out in guidelines in applications. JewishPress.com