Direct Service Opportunities
Food insecurity. It’s a way of life for so many, especially now as people are struggling to survive during this unprecedented time. It is Jewish tradition to take care of those in need. We are commanded to feed the hungry by leaving a corner of our fields unharvested and available to the poor (Leviticus (23:22). In addition to literal food, we need to think about ways to feed people’s souls. We have an obligation to take action. So, what can we at Temple Isaiah do? Glad you asked. Below are some ways you can help from the comfort of your home and/or by going out into the community if you are comfortable doing so.
Disclaimer: Temple Isaiah is not holding any in-person activities in our building. For those of you who are comfortable doing activities outside your home, the following local organizations need volunteers. Please check their current social distancing guidelines and protections and decide for yourself what you are comfortable with.
ENGAGEMENT FROM YOUR HOME
Donations
An important way to help is to make a financial donation. The Social Action Team will use contributions to support local hunger and human services
- Donate Online Here: Under
funds, select "Social Action" and in the "Payment Notes" section, please write "for Covid-19 use." - You can mail a check to Temple Isaiah, 55 Lincoln Street, Lexington, MA 02421. Please write “Social Action COVID” in the memo line
Make Sandwiches for Community Day Center of Waltham
The center provides healthy lunches for 40 homeless individuals every single day. We are coordinating with JCRC to provide lunches on Tuesdays.
For questions, email Leah Baigell at lbaigell@gmail.com
Card-making for Jewish Family & Children’s Service
Homemade cards mean so much to older, homebound adults. You can use any appropriate cards you have, or you can purchase blank cards and envelopes online, as well as cards with adult-coloring designs. This is a wonderful activity for adults and children of all ages!
Project Overview & Sign Up to Make Cards "Together" via Zoom
To make cards on your own, or if you have any questions, email Jane Paulson at je.paulson5@gmail.com.
We provide healthy dinners to 60 homeless men on the first Sunday of each month. Volunteer cooks sign up to make a component of the mea. Others donate funds to purchase food. If you would like to be on the monthly email requesting Bristol Lodge cooks and donations, please email sally.huebscher@me.com
ENGAGEMENT IN THE COMMUNITY
(contact and contactless)
Food Link, Arlington
a food rescue organization
Learn More/ sign Up for in-person volunteer opportunities
Jewish Family & Children’s Service (JF&CS)
Family Table & The Center for Early Relationship Support
- Learn More/Sign Up for in-person and at-home volunteer opportunities
- Purchase food from Family Table's Amazon Wish List for delivery to JF&CS. Note that the shipping address is JF&CS Family Table or Bernice Behar’s Gift Registry.
- Purchase items from The Center for Early Relationship Support's Amazon Wish List for delivery to JF&CS. Note that the shipping address should read either JF&CS Family Table or Gabrielle Jacobs’ Gift Registry.
Local Area Food Pantries
You are welcome to check out the food pantry in your town and follow their guidelines for how to best support them during this time.
