Yonason Schwartz Raises Outcry as Williamsburg Bais Medrash Found Selling Vapes and Cigarettes, Youth Access Goes Unchecked

Noted badchan R’ Yonason Schwartz, CEO of Toys To Discover, recently discovered a concerning issue in a Williamsburg bais medrash: vapes and cigarettes are being sold openly on the premises, with little restriction on who can purchase them.

According to R’ Yonason, heard narrating in the video below, the products are readily available, creating the possibility that young children, teens, and other impressionable youth have easy access to them.

R’ Yonason was shocked to find these items on sale in a space usually reserved for davening and learning. Recognizing the potential impact on local youth, he immediately raised the issue with those overseeing the shul.

Despite his concerns and repeated attempts to engage with the administration of the bais medrash, R’ Yonason says his efforts have thus far been met with silence.

“I’ve tried reaching out multiple times, hoping to discuss this and to come up with a solution that protects our community, but no action has been taken,” he reported. “The lack of response is incredibly disappointing.”

The potential risks posed by nicotine and vaping products are well-documented, especially for children and adolescents. Health experts agree that exposure to nicotine at a young age can lead to long-term addiction and a higher likelihood of engaging in other high-risk behaviors.

R’ Yonason voiced concerns that if the sale of these items is allowed to continue unchecked, it could have far-reaching consequences for Yiddishe kinder, sharing some real-life examples of children become addicted.

In the meantime, R’ Yonason has vowed to keep raising awareness about the situation. “We have a responsibility to protect the well-being of our children.”

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