Purim is a time for fun, food and frivolity. But it is also a time to give tzedakah and remember those who are not as fortunate. At this time of year, the mitzvah of tzedakah can be combined with the fun of delivering mishloach manot by supporting organizations that sell mishloach manot or Purim cards. The following local and Israel-based non-profit organizations provide such opportunities.
Tomchei Shabbos, which provides Shabbos food to needy families in Bergen County, is selling Purim postcards through local stores that can be sent in lieu of mishloach manot. The cards are $15 for a package of 10, and are available at Best Glatt, Chopstix, Grand & Essex, Judaica House, Poppy’s, Ma’adan, Noah’s Ark, Food Showcase (Fairlawn), and Menagerie (Englewood). For more information, call Margi Saks at 201-384-5553.
Project Ezrah, an organization that helps members of the Bergen County Jewish community who are unemployed, has been selling mishloach manot. They are now looking for help packing the Purim packets from now until March 2nd at Ben Porat Yosef as well as deliver them on Purim day. If you are available, you can email: [email protected]
Sharsheret, which offers support to women diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer, is selling Purim cards. The cards come in packages of 12 for $36. Orders may be shipped directly to you until February 26th or picked up from the Sharsheret office in Teaneck, 1086 Teaneck Road, Suite 3A, until March 4th. Cards are also available for purchase at Judaica House, and orders can be made online at http://www.sharsheret.org/purimcards.
Sinai Schools, which provides Jewish education for Jewish children with learning or developmental disabilities, is selling colorful Purim postcards for $1 each. The cards are available online at http://www.sinaischools.org/purim and at Ma’adan Caterers, Best Glatt, Rosenbaum Yeshiva of North Jersey, Joseph Kushner Hebrew Academy, Torah Academy of Bergen County, and Ma’ayanot Yeshiva High School.
Chai Lifeline, which provides programs that address the emotional, social, and financial needs of seriously ill children and their families, is selling a variety of Purim cards for $20 for sets of 10. Items can be shipped free with a purchase of two or more sets. For an additional fee, cards are sent directly from Chai Lifeline. For more information, visit http://www.chailifeline.org/events/card/purim.
Yad Eliezer, Israel’s largest poverty relief organization, is also selling Purim cards. For every card sold, a family will receive much needed help that will greatly add to their celebration. Purim Cards are $3 each, $25 for a pack of 10, $50 for a pack of $20, or $108 for a pack of 50. For more information, visit Yad Eliezer’s website at http://www.yadeliezer.org for more information.
Leket Israel, Israel’s National Food Bank and largest food rescue network, is selling Purim cards. The cards cost $36 for 18 cards and envelopes (1 pack), $70 for 36 (2 packs), $90 for 54 (3 packs,) and$170 for 108 (4 packs.) Unlimited Purim e-cards, picture cards, and video cards are available for $18. Every dollar provides 10 pounds of fresh fruits and vegetables for one needy person for a week. For more information, visit the website at http://www.purim.leket.org
Yachad, an organization for Jewish adults who are developmentally disabled, is selling Purim cards. Yachad is also selling hand-made mishloach manot, developed, assembled and packed by Yachad members through YachadGifts.com
OneFamily Fund is selling Purim cards. One hundred cards sell for $360. The proceeds will provide Purim Baskets to victims of terror in Israel. Free addressing, postage and mailing available upon request. For more information, contact [email protected] 646-289-8600 x 201.
The individuals from OHEL Bais Ezra’s Day Habilitation Program will be packaging and selling mishloach manot this year. Each individual package will be put together with care and love by a developmentally disabled adult, with help from members of the community. This unique Mishloach Manot provides jobs and skill training, and instills OHEL individuals with dignity and a sense of accomplishment. Large bags are $25, medium bags are $15 and small bags are $8. Convenient pick up locations are available beginning February 23rd until March 3rd. Delivery options are also available. To order and view product options, visit ohelpurim.org or www.ohelgiftsatwork.org or call 718-972-9338
HASC’s Gan Ezra Preschool is selling Purim cards. The funds raised will be used to provide exciting equipment and programs for the children. A postcard with envelope is 3.00 each or 4 for $10.00. Purim cards can be ordered by calling Tobe Rebhun 845-356-0191 -Ext 5107 or e-mail [email protected]
By Tova Domnitch
