What happens when a clown, fully dressed up, enters the doors of Meir Panim Jerusalem? It may sound like the start of a joke, but this is what really happens at Meir Panim Restaurant-Style Soup Kitchens! 

Recently, we were surprised, however as is Meir Panim’s ethos, welcomed this new face to sit and have a warm meal; she quickly explained that she was not in a place of need, but came to Meir Panim on the side of giving. Chana came in to talk to our staff about volunteering, to lift the spirits of our diners using her skills as a certified Medical Clown. 

Clown Care is a program in health care facilities involving visits from specially trained clowns, which have been shown to help in lifting patients’ moods with the positive power of hope and humor. Chana Banana, our amazing volunteer, following her training, has decided to take somewhat of a different approach, outside of the medical world, helping to give back to those in need at Meir Panim. 

At Meir Panim, we do anything we can to help our community, offering recreational, and educational activities when possible in addition to our meals, so we are thrilled to welcome Chana Banana to the team! 

Israel has become a global leader in the field of Clown Care, and through the certification program which includes over 120 hours of instruction, we truly understand the healing power of humor. 

Chana Banana’s weekly visits entertain and help support our patrons manage fear, anxiety, loneliness, and boredom. She truly provides a special medicine of joy that permeates our entire branch!