ByJosh Jackman, Josh Jackman
A new service for the strictly Orthodox marries the traditional art of matchmaking with modern technology.
The Shidduch Project, created by Stamford Hill-based Agudas Israel Community Services, allows matchmakers to access a database of Charedim looking for love. It has attracted 200 singles since launching two weeks ago.
Its database has 12 categories covering elements such as clients' levels of Orthodoxy and whether they have been married before.
One of more than 40 matchmakers involved in the programme said the community "has grown a lot, making it harder to be known by [other] people".
The woman said the list "will allow matchmakers to access more people than they would know in their neighbourhood or community.
In the Orthodox community, youngsters don’t mix
"You wouldn't spend money on 10 cars to decide which one you want - you'd go for a test drive first. That test drive is the research, which is what we do."
Agudas chief executive Ita Symons described the resource - which is free until a successful match is made - as "a service the community needs, just like it needs housing, employment and financial advice.
"In the Orthodox community, the youngsters don't mix. A girl will go her way; a boy will go his. They don't meet on a street corner. There is absolutely a need. How do you think my children got married?"