(Courtesy of JFCS) JFCS Wheels for Meals—Ride to Fight Hunger in a typical year features riders ranging from serious bike enthusiasts to families celebrating simchot gathering to pursue a meaningful cause. This year due to the pandemic the Ride is going virtual on Sunday, June 14.
Everybody asks “What does a virtual ride mean?” To explain, there are several different ways to participate in the ride. Riders can actually follow the routes from last year (that are listed on our website) or create their own. For those who are more comfortable riding inside you may join a Zoom ride with two-time USA Cycling National Champion Mara Miller at 9 a.m. on that Sunday morning.
The Ride to Fight Hunger raises funds for JFCS food assistance programs. These programs feed the food insecure through services such as Kosher Meals on Wheels, emergency gift cards and JFCS food pantries in Teaneck and Fair Lawn. Last year, funds raised by the ride went towards stocking the food pantries used by over 200 families. Proceeds also support other JFCS programs for homebound seniors, disabled individuals and disadvantaged families.
During the pandemic, the need to make a difference in the lives of the vulnerable in our community has intensified. The number of isolated and homebound seniors who signed up for Kosher Meals on Wheels has increased by nearly 50% since mid-March. Other service areas have experienced similar increases.
The ride will take place on June 14, at the safe location and time of the riders’ choice. JFCS will supply t-shirts to all registered participants. Everyone is encouraged to wear their T-shirt, take photos and share them on JFCS’ social media. Register for the event at ridetofighthunger.com. Start your own team or join an existing one, like the one established in honor of Micah Kaufman, a long-time bike committee member. The virtual Wheels for Meals—Ride to Fight Hunger is a great way to stay physically fit during quarantine, as well as an opportunity to join together as a community to stop hunger one mile at a time. For more information, call 201-837-9090 or email [email protected].
