High Holy Days and On-Going Hunger Projects
HIGH HOLY DAYS FOOD VAN
Food on Yom Kippur?
You may wonder why on Yom Kippur, a day we fast ourselves, we ask you to bring food to the temple. Our High Holy Days Food Collection began back in 1987 using a congregant’s personal van and has grown into a large “food truck” collection that local food pantries depend on to bolster their Fall and Winter food supplies.
Putting food on our table may not be a daily worry for some of us, but many neighbors in Westchester struggle to feed themselves and their families. Food pantries in our area have seen a significant increase in people seeking food assistance, growing in new requests each week.
During the High Holy Days, we offer the opportunity to participate in the mitzvah of gemilut chasadim, acts of loving-kindness, by bringing healthy, nonperishable food and toiletries for our neighbors in need. See the most needed items on our suggested shopping list.
Want to do even more?
Come with us to deliver the food on Friday morning, October 3, or spend an hour helping at the truck on Yom Kippur. Sign up at wct.org/foodvansignup.
Beyond High Holy Days
Feeding the hungry is a major part of our work. A food cart sits at the entry to the temple. Whenever possible, please bring canned goods that do not require a can opener.
Month(s) | Food Collection |
September | Low-sugar cereal, granola bars |
October | Canned meats, fish and beans |
November | Non-perishable Thanksgiving food |
December | Canned soups and stews |
January | Pasta and pasta sauce |
February | Dried beans, rice |
March | Shelf-stable milk, 100% juice boxes |
April | Canned vegetables & fruits (low-sugar) - pop-tops |
May | Canned meats, fish and beans |
June-August | Any non-perishable food |
Leaders: Sandi Lieb and Val Fox, Socialaction@wct.org