In the midst of the ongoing turmoil experienced by displaced families, IDF soldiers and their families, as well as needy individuals and families, Meir Panim has been working tirelessly to mitigate the hardships and spread some light.
Mimi Rozmaryn, director of global development at Meir Panim, recently took part in a conference abroad where she shared the plight of Israelis in the fifth month of an existential war. “People are under the impression that the war is over, but we’re living proof that it’s very not over,” she stated.
Meir Panim has become a sanctuary for displaced families, feeding thousands daily in addition to the steady patrons comprising single-parent families, the elderly and the working poor. Another important initiative is the clothing drives for displaced families, whose needs evolve as the seasons change and the children grow.
The organization has also been extending support to IDF soldiers, organizing BBQ events to bolster spirits during active tours and as celebrations of completed duty, underscoring Meir Panim’s comprehensive approach.
With the war in its fifth month, industries across the board are continuing to suffer significant setbacks. Tourism and construction are facing severe downturns, leading to an increased demand for Meir Panim’s services, not just from displaced individuals but also from locals who are unemployed and struggling to make ends meet.
Meir Panim’s response has been swift and adaptive. The Dimona branch has become a hub for displaced families, providing care packages as well as food for soldiers and community support. In Tzfat, despite the challenges, Meir Panim’s commitment remained unwavering, even when a rocket strike coincided with the reopening of their dining facility. “We were organizing only take-out for several weeks due to the intermittent shelling,” Rozmaryn explained, “but our patrons told us, ‘Our hunger is louder than the sirens.’”
Through strategic partnerships, such as a significant donation from the Tamam airport caterer, Meir Panim has been able to distribute thousands of meals to displaced families over the course of a month. Additionally, the new walk-in fridge at the Tiberias branch exemplifies Meir Panim’s dedication to meeting the growing needs of the community.
The spirit of volunteering at Meir Panim has never been stronger, with troops, displaced individuals and even family members of the hostages offering their time and energy on behalf of others.
With Purim just around the corner, Meir Panim is working to provide as many people as possible with a festive Purim meal and two mishloach manot (one to keep and one to give away) — one of the organization’s signature offerings. “All our plans are in the works and we’re doing all we can despite the difficulty of planning amid uncertainty,” said Rozmaryn.
Meir Panim’s efforts, rooted in compassion and resilience, offer a glimmer of hope in times of adversity, embodying the belief that together, the Jewish people can face the challenges that lie ahead.
Make a donation today 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 St., Suite B1 Brooklyn, NY 11206-4479. All donations made in the U.S. are tax-deductible under EIN# 20-1582478.
