We believe the ancient sage who said in effect that helping the imprisoned is the loftiest of all charitable acts, superseding all other forms. Initially launched under the sponsorship of B'nai B'rith and now an independent entity, JPSI has grown to the point where we have volunteers across the country providing direct services to prisoners throughout the United States, Canada and Israel. In addition, we have ex-offenders who, in the past, were recipients of the group's help. After serving their sentences, they have joined JPSI to reciprocate and become involved in reaching out to those they left behind.
Similar conditions prevail just about anywhere in the nation.
At places like Sumter Correctional Institution it really isn't a problem. There are usually about 23 Jews living, working and davening in the compound. They gather on Erev Shabbat for observances that are typically followed by a bare-bones Oneg Shabbat celebration. Chaplain Panzetta is Judaically literate. So much so that there are Hebrew classes scheduled on Monday nights.