Since October 7, 2023, the war in Israel has reshaped lives across the nation. Thousands have been injured, disabled, or killed, leaving behind widows, orphans and countless families grappling with unbearable loss and struggling to meet basic needs.
In this devastating reality, Meir Panim has served as a source of sustenance and hope. Across its branches, the organization has expanded its mission, providing not just food but emotional support and stability to a nation in crisis.
In the Dimona branch, the Free Shuk empowers families to shop for essentials with dignity, while afternoon programs give at-risk youth a safe place to hang out while gaining important life skills. In addition, the Holocaust Survivor Day Center offers meals, activities and a sense of community for elderly survivors struggling with poverty and isolation.
The Sderot branch has recently launched a new program to support 250 wives of IDF reservists who have been in active duty, on and off, since the war began. These women spend much of their time parenting alone and living in constant concern for the safety and well-being of their children and husbands. Meir Panim provides meals, emotional support and little surprises that bring smiles and help to alleviate some of the burden.
On the shores of the Sea of Galilee, Tiberias became home to hundreds of families fleeing northern Israel. The local branch offered them essential support, from clothing and furniture to school supplies for children starting anew. “Meir Panim gave us everything—food, furniture, and hope,” said one mother.
Tzfat, among Israel’s poorest cities, has suffered from months of relentless terrorist fire. The fragile cease-fire in place at the time of this writing has not placated residents accustomed to living in constant fear. For this reason, Meir Panim’s Tzfat branch continues to deliver thousands of meals to families who are still too afraid to leave their homes. Amid the chaos, weekly gatherings for Holocaust survivors at the branch’s soup kitchen provide vital community connections.
In addition to providing for needy families and individuals, Or Akiva has been a hub for soldiers and displaced families. The branch has distributed over 25,000 gear sets to IDF troops and provides care packages for injured soldiers and those on the frontlines. Led by branch manager Ilanit, the dedicated staff has also been a source of support to displaced families, furnishing homes and delivering critical aid.
In Jerusalem, poverty is the harsh reality of almost half of the residents, particularly elderly Holocaust survivors and families. Here Meir Panim provides meals with dignity and respect, offering a warm, inviting haven where patrons feel like guests, not recipients. In another gesture of warmth and caring, every Thursday, after lunch, challahs are distributed for Shabbat. One elderly patron shared: “For me, Meir Panim is not just a place to get food. It is a place where someone remembers me and cares if I am okay.”
Each Meir Panim branch addresses unique challenges but shares a common mission: to bring hope and healing to those in need. Mimi Rozmaryn, director of global development, shared: “Personally, the one thing that has kept me going this past year is the strength I draw each day at our Meir Panim branches. I am privileged to witness so much giving and unity, a true silver lining in this challenging period.”
Make your donation today online at www.mpdonate.org, through the toll-free number at (877) 7-DONATE / 877.736.6283, or by mail to American Friends of Meir Panim at 88 Walton Street, Suite B1 Brooklyn, NY 11206-4479. All donations made in the US are tax-deductible under EIN# 20-1582478.
