(From a press release)
Ahead of the Passover holiday (April 12 through 20), the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia’s Mitzvah Food Program is ensuring that all Jews in the region have access to Kosher for Passover food to celebrate the holiday by distributing matzo, grape juice, matzo ball soup, honey, borscht, and gefilte fish to 838 individuals.
“Reaching out for help allows a mitzvah for two people,” said Mitzvah Food Program client Ron.
“It allows people at the food bank to perform a mitzvah, and it allows you to receive one. By the nature of the mitzvah, both sides benefit.”
Since 1996, the Mitzvah Food Program has served thousands of food insecure individuals and families in Greater Philadelphia regardless of race, income, gender, age or religion. Operating out of four pantry sites in Old York Road, Main Line, Bucks County, and Northeast, recipients can select their own fresh, frozen, and nonperishable food with kosher options through a points system that incentivizes healthier eating.
In addition to the food distributions, the Mitzvah Food Program will be distributing $13,575 in gift cards to over 2,500 active clients to assist them during whichever holiday they celebrate this spring. This is especially important considering that over 60% of Mitzvah Food Program clients are non-Jewish.
“The Mitzvah Food Program operates under the belief that nutritious food is a right, not a privilege,” said Michael Costello, Director, Donor Services & Projects at the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia. “As the demand for food support is at an all-time high in today’s economy, it is more important than ever that we provide people in need with the resources so they can celebrate the holidays most meaningful to them.”
Passover food distributions will take place at select Mitzvah Food Program locations in early April on Tuesday, April 8 and Thursday, April 10.
Since 1901, the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia has served as the hub of the region’s Jewish communities, providing an infrastructure of support for Jewish people and organizations in need. Through grants, emergency funding, restricted gifts, endowments, and our partnership with the Foundation for Jewish Day Schools, we care for those in need, combat antisemitism and global crisis, and strengthen Jewish identity. For more information, please visit.
