Excited to engage in a mitzvah project, grandparents, parents and children were eager to roll up their sleeves, be put to work and engage in a mitzvah! Their first task of the day was to peel carrots and potatoes for a soup. According to one mother on the trip, the children really enjoyed putting on the signature red Meir Panim aprons and getting involved with the cooking preparation. Once they were finished in the kitchen, the volunteers interacted with elderly patrons eating at the restaurant by serving them hot meals and drinks. Some participants even sat down to eat the lunch so they could try the delicious hot food!

After their hard work, the group watched a video about Meir Panim and received more information about the organization. Lastly, a special ceremony was held at the free restaurant to congratulate each of the Bar/Bat Mitzvah students on their coming of age. Each child was also given a certificate of honor from Meir Panim. After his volunteer experience, one participant said, “I had such a great time at the Free Restaurant in Jerusalem. I really left with a great sense of satisfaction having helped out in such a tremendous effort. I hope to come back again.”