The United Synagogue

Pesach Food Parcels


'Let all who are hungry, come and eat. Let all who are needy, come and celebrate Pesach'

Project Chesed's Pesach initiatives reach out and support thousands of elderly and isolated members in need, as well as those in our wider society.

The Chagim are particularly difficult times for those in need in our community. Hundreds of people approach these occasions with fear, and are isolated and alone at times which should be full of celebration and joy. What used to be a special time of family togetherness can be a cruel reminder of bereavement, family break-up and isolation. For others, the fear of debt and the extra costs of the Yom Tovim can leave people with a terrible feeling of despair.

"Since Harry died I've always been alone at Pesach. I'm just so sad and lonely"

It's just too easy to think this isn't happening in our own community, but it is. Thanks to the support of our community, Project Chesed is continually growing to respond to those in need.

In previous years, we've delivered over 3,000 Pesach food parcels for those unable to afford the cost of Pesach, subsidised hundreds of places at communal Sederim for those who would otherwise be alone on Seder night, distributed more than 20,000 boxes of Matza to those who need, and collected hundreds of Chametz items for local homeless shelters. Again this year, we have supported thousands of members, enabling them to 'come and celebrate Pesach' with us.

Unfortunately, the demand for our services grows every year as our Coordinators identify more people in need of our support. We are indebited to the United Synagogue community who, through our Pesach Appeal, fund every food parcel and Seder subsidy for someone in need. This vital work relies on voluntary contributions. To make a donation, please contact cwoolfson@theus.org.uk

"There simply are not the words to adequately express our appreciation for your kind support at this difficult time in our lives"
Pesach Parcel Recipient 2009

We would like to thank Rakusens for their generous donation of thousands of boxes of Matzah each year.

The giving of food parcels is a small gesture which makes a big difference. This notion of Gemilut Chesed (acts of loving kindness) is part of the fabric of the organisation. Touching the lives of our members is something in which we can all share.

'Chametz for the Homeless' Collection

As we talk about our freedom during the Seder, it's a sad reality that freedom for some is still limited. In an attempt to help alleviate the hunger of people living in our neighbourhoods, Project Chesed each year continues it's Chametz for the Homeless initiative.

The idea is simple - rather than throwing away or selling all your Chametz before Pesach, we can help you give it away to someone who would really appreciate it. Members just bring any unopened, non-perishable items, within their use-by date (e.g. tins, boxes of cereals and other sealed packets) to the collection box at their shul and it is taken to a local homeless shelter on behalf of their community.

In this way, members are reaching out to others at Pesach and can enjoy their Seder in the knowledge that someone else is eating because of them.

To find out your nearest collection point contact Candice Woolfson on 020 8343 5688 or email chesed@theus.org.uk

this week
shabbat times

Feb. 10th - 11th
18th Shevat
Begins: 16:51
Ends: 17:56
Sedra: Yitro

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