As the world watches in disbelief and horror, Israelis and communities worldwide remain fixated on the relentless barrage of devastating events that began on Simchat Torah. In the face of these dire circumstances, Meir Panim has risen to the occasion, exhibiting unwavering determination to address pressing needs with the utmost urgency and thoroughness.
Across its nationwide branches, Meir Panim’s dedicated staff members have gone above and beyond, providing essential support and relief to their communities in the midst of turmoil. “Remarkably,” said Mimi Rozmaryn, director of global development at Meir Panim, “they’re continuing these efforts while grappling with their own challenges as they endure the trials of war—shouldering the responsibility of caring for their children alone as their spouses are called up to military duty, and hosting families who’ve fled the war-torn south.”
All of this takes place against a backdrop of ever-present fear and tension, as the uncertainty of each new day looms large.
In Or Akiva, one of the destinations for many displaced families from communities adjacent to Gaza, the Meir Panim team undertook to prepare huge quantities of Shabbat meals for southern families staying on their own as well as those hosted by family and friends, in addition to regular patrons and soldiers. “Meir Panim prepared a full Shabbat-to-go in a bag, including challahs and grape juice, all made and given with love,” said Rozmaryn.
In the southern town of Dimona, meals are being packed and distributed to both Jewish families and Bedouins in need who reached out because they were unable to access food staples. At Meir Panim all are welcome, no questions asked.
In branches where the dining room is closed due to the lack of a bomb shelter on the premises, Meir Panim has expanded its Meals on Wheels service.
Donation centers have sprung up at Meir Panim branches across the country, so that people can drop off goods and food items for residents of the south and for soldiers.
In Sderot, which at the time of this writing is still experiencing the brunt of Hamas aggression, Meir Panim staff are doing their utmost and more to connect with vulnerable teens and provide them with support and encouragement that are crucial at this time.
Each day brings with it its own trepidation, concern and uncertainty. But with the support of their brothers and sisters overseas, Meir Panim is hopeful and confident that it will make it through this period and emerge stronger.
Stand with Israel at this challenging time! To make a donation today, visit www.mpdonate.org; call 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, N.Y. 11206-4479. All donations made in the U.S. are tax-deductible under EIN# 20-1582478.
