The United Synagogue

US' Project Chesed Helps Many Jews Enjoy Pesach

PRESS COVERAGE

London, 10th April, 2008

US' PROJECT CHESED HELPS MANY JEWS ENJOY PESACH

Over 4500 boxes of matzah will be distributed to elderly and isolated members of the community as part of the United Synagogue’s Project Chesed this Pesach. Project Chesed, a joint initiative between the US and the London School of Jewish Studies, will reach out to those elderly and disadvantaged members of the community who are either unable to afford the additional expenses of the Pesach period or do not have the opportunity to participate in a meaningful Pesach experience.

Over 450 Pesach parcels, filled with items such as matza, wine, tea, coffee, cheese and cold meats, will be distributed across 24 US communities. With the greatest demand for food parcels coming from Hackney & East London Synagogue, over 120 packages will be distributed in the area thanks to the generosity of many of the UK’s leading kosher brands. In addition, subsidised places are being offered across all US communities to those unable to afford the full cost of attending a community seder.

Recognising the Jewish responsibility to help our fellow human beings, Project Chesed has worked with 12 US communities to set up a collection point for their Chametz which will then be distributed to local homeless shelters.

Project Chesed has also sent out a card to all US members with a special reading from the Chief Rabbi for the Sedarim and four practical ideas of how to make a difference this Pesach.

Project Chesed is being supported by the Dr. Benjamin Angel Foundation and a private donor.

Candice Woolfson, Director of Project Chesed, commented: “Project Chesed teaches about the Jewish responsibility we have for our fellow human beings, encourages acts of kindness, and inspires our community to make a difference. This year we have been overwhelmed by the level of support we have received from volunteers who have packaged all the goods, and the Kosher food suppliers who have offered items free of charge. So many members of our community who would have otherwise been alone or without Pesach food this year will now have the opportunity to benefit from our community’s generosity.”

The US would like to thank Rakusens who have donated all the matzot, to Just Kosher of Borehamwood, Fabulous Canapes, Goldstein Smoked Salmon, Kelmans, Lewco-Pak, Blooms, Osem UK and Snowcrest.


-END-

Article Credit, Hamodia, www.hamodia.co.uk>