During Chanukah, our hearts and our homes are filled with the warmth and light of the Menorah. But for an impoverished family, Chanukah is a cold, dark time. Unable to afford holiday foods, let alone gifts, the winter months are bitter for Israel’s poor – made all the more so when surrounded by holiday festivities they cannot share in.
The mission: Meir Panim wants to reach out with warmth, and serve 8,000 free meals daily, across eight days, to needy Israelis.
Join Meir Panim in spreading the miracle of Chanukah to thousands of hungry children, struggling families and impoverished elderly. Help set a historic record with this tremendous effort in easing the pain of Israel’s poor. This is a once-in-a-life opportunity to touch the lives of thousands of Israelis, and bring immediate relief to those suffering from hunger.
As Israel’s premier social services organization, with relief centers across the country, Meir Panim is fighting the poverty and hunger crisis in Israel on a daily basis. Since 2000, the organization has served all Israelis, regardless of ethnicity or religious background, through food and social service programs that give dignity, respect and relief to many of the country’s neediest residents.
In addition to serving festive holiday meals at the Meir Panim Free Restaurant branches, Chanukah parties will take place this year at all of the after-school youth club locations. The parties will feature music and dancing, arts and crafts, and a variety of treats – especially sufganiot (jelly donuts). Hundreds of children will get to experience a Chanukah of warmth and fun at the Meir Panim events. For these children, the Chanukah party is the most special and memorable day of the year.
“Everyone deserves a happy Chanukah, and the organization works tirelessly to make sure that they get it” said David Roth, President of American Friends of Meir Panim. “Chanukah and Meir Panim are closely related” he continued. “The Festival of Lights parallels the work that we do, which is lighting up the faces of those in need. Our programs fill the needy with light and joy.”
To contribute to the Chanukah campaign, click here.
All contributions are tax-deductible.