After a summer of violence, Jews across Israel deserved to celebrate the holidays with happy hearts, peaceful minds, and full stomachs. Thanks to Meir Panim, many of Israel’s poor were able to do just that!

In the days leading up to Rosh Hashana, Meir Panim staff and volunteers criss-crossed the country, hand-delivering close to 2,500 food shopping cards to those in need. The cards are preloaded with 250 shekels (approximately $72) and can be used at major Israeli supermarket chains to purchase food and household items. The cards allow families to fill their refrigerators and pantries with goods of their own choosing.

“What makes this program wonderful is the use of the cards, which allow needy families to go to the store and buy groceries just like everyone else, with no blow to their self-respect,” said David Roth, President of American Friends of Meir Panim.

For those unable to shop for themselves, such as the elderly and homebound, holiday food packages were delivered straight to their doors. The packages contained premium items such as meat, fish, and wine, along with fresh produce, eggs and fresh-baked challah.

Other Meir Panim holiday activities included New Year celebrations and Sukkah parties for the children in Meir Panim’s After-School Youth Clubs and their families.

And in Meir Panim’s Or Akiva branch, dedicated volunteers built over 25 sukkoth for the elderly, ensuring that these individuals were able to observe the holiday with ease and dignity.

Many thanks to all those who contributed to the holiday campaign.