Members of the local chapter of the Jewish outreach organization stacked eight rows of donated canned foods in the shape of a menorah at a Hanukkah celebration at the Comfort Suites. Children glued the cans together and lit several lanterns.

After Hanukkah ends Saturday, "the food can Menorah" will be taken down and its parts donated to the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York in Latham for distribution to the needy.

The can-norah symbolizes Hanukkah's message of overcoming challenges and bringing extra light into the world, said Rabbi Yossi Rubin, 27, of Albany.

"I think it's great," said Varda LeMonds, a town resident who brought her daughter to help build the can-norah, meet with friends and watch Jewish-themed cartoons.

Rubin founded Clifton Park Chabad last September with his wife Leah. The organization has about 20 members and hosts various religious-based programs at the Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, the Sportsplex in Halfmoon, Borders and the Comfort Suites.

"We're looking forward to moving here and creating a Jewish outreach center for unaffiliated Jews to learn more about their heritage," Rubin said.

He and Leah met in Brooklyn and have two children, Mussi, 2, and Mendel, 1. "My role would be helping in every possible way," Leah said.

Rubin said he's received a welcoming response from the community. The couple share an orthodox approach to religion.

"He's made quite an impact on the Jewish community in Clifton Park," LeMonds said. "It's an alternative to the reform congregation in Clifton Park."

Last year, Clifton Park Chabad's "Chanukah Wonderland" at Clifton Park Center included a giant balloon menorah and an olive oil workshop.

This week, it hosted a Hanukkah celebration at the entrance of Boscov's.

The eight days of Hanukkah are observed by the kindling of the menorah each night of the holiday. Rubin views the menorah as a symbol of the state of Israel and also of unity.

"In ancient times our ancestors rededicated the Temple in Jerusalem with the menorah. Today, we rededicate ourselves to making this world a better and brighter place," Rubin said.

Clifton Park Chabad can be reached at CliftonParkChabad @earthlink.net.