Every summer, the Deal community extends the same heartfelt invitation to Chai Lifeline children: forget everything else and just be a kid for a day.
When over 100 children and hundreds of volunteers and community members took them up on that offer, the result was everything Deal Day was meant to be.
Camp Simcha Without Borders brings the magic of Chai Lifeline’s renowned summer camp experience directly to communities across the country through special day programs. For children facing serious illness, it means accessing Camp Simcha’s joy and support without leaving home. For the community, it means continuing their longtime partnership with Chai Lifeline in the most meaningful way possible.
Deal Day represents the very best of community spirit. The community has been a steadfast supporter of Chai Lifeline for years, and with the recent formal launch of Chai Lifeline’s Sephardic Division, this year’s Deal Day marked a significant milestone for the organization.
“Chai Lifeline has carried our families through their hardest moments, and our community has always stood right there with them, ” shared Jack Tabbush, Director of Chai Lifeline’s Sephardic Division. “Supporting those in need is the heart of who we are, and this is a partnership we’re proud to keep building together.”
This year’s festivities blended adventure, creativity, and connection on the Massry Farm. Campers enjoyed a hands-on petting zoo, tried axe throwing and archery, navigated the corn maze, explored spray-paint art, and relaxed by the pool. The day culminated in an unforgettable surprise concert by Zusha, leaving everyone dancing and singing all the way home. Each activity became a backdrop for moments when illness and crisis took a backseat to pure fun.
Adding to the day’s energy were the TourDeSimcha riders, participants in Chai Lifeline’s annual women’ s cycling event that raises funds and awareness for the organization’s vital work. These dedicated participants spend months training and fundraising, and their arrival in Deal represents the culmination of their efforts. The pure joy of campers greeting the riders made their efforts even more meaningful.
“TourDeSimcha is the best day of the summer, and we wouldn’t miss it for the world,” shared longtime riders Sharon Dayan and Raquel Cohen. “Being part of this ride and seeing the impact at the finish line is incredible. It’s a true reminder that it’s the smiles, not the miles, that make all the difference. Each year, the kids inspire us just as much as we hope to inspire them, and we can’t wait to do it again!”
Deal Day works because the community understands something fundamental: children facing serious illness don’t need pity. They need joy, normalcy, and the chance to just be kids.
The day was graciously hosted by Iris and Mark Massry. For Iris, her connection with Chai Lifeline began years ago when she was a counselor in Camp Simcha at age 19, and ever since the organization has had a special place in her heart.
“When Jack asked if I knew of a house for Deal Day, the first thought in my head was our home. I asked Mark, and right away he said ‘Of course, let them use ours and the farm!’ From there, the planning began with the greatest team of people, and in just 10 days we pulled it all together. Seeing each child thank us at the end of the day, so full of appreciation, was incredible. Mark and I could not have been happier to open our home and give these children a reason to smile.”
On behalf of the children and families supported, Chai Lifeline extends heartfelt gratitude to hosts Mark and Iris Massry, TourDeSimcha riders, and the entire Community whose dedication makes Deal Day possible year after year.
Learn more about Chai Lifeline’s Sephardic Division at chailifeline.org/sephardic.
