Margaret Tietz Opens Shabbat House; Rabbi Nisanov Recalls Family’s Overnight Stays

Margaret Tietz Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Jamaica Hills has replaced a crowded hospitality apartment with a dedicated three-level Shabbat House that can host up to 10 overnight guests, Bukharian Jewish Link reported Sept. 18, 2026.

Rabbanim, elected officials, and community partners toured the main floor, upper level, and finished attic before a backyard reception. Linda Spiegel, director of public affairs, called the house “an amazing brachah” for relatives who need to stay near a patient over Shabbat and Yom Tov. Guests receive furnished rooms and complimentary Glatt kosher meals under the center’s longtime hospitality program.

The Bukharian community peg is explicit in the BJL report: Rabbi Shlomo Nisanov, rav of Kehilat Sephardim of Ahavat Achim in Kew Gardens Hills, previously described his family’s experience when his mother underwent rehabilitation at Margaret Tietz after knee-replacement surgery over the Yamim Tovim.

“They went beyond making her feel comfortable,” Rabbi Nisanov said, recalling overnight accommodations that let relatives remain close to her.

Facility rabbi Zavel Pearlman said several families had already spent Shabbat in the new house before the ribbon cutting, calling the hospitality an extension of bikur cholim. Assemblymembers David Weprin, Sam Berger, and Andrew Hevesi presented a New York State Assembly proclamation at the opening.

For Kew Gardens Hills and Forest Hills families who use Margaret Tietz—including Bukharian households connected to Kehilat Sephardim—the practical change is more beds within walking distance of a relative in rehab.

Sources: Bukharian Jewish Link.