Metropolitan Council on Jewish Poverty (Met Council), continues its annual tradition of providing kosher for Passover food to the poor and near-poor throughout New York City. This year, the Met Council Kosher Food Network will provide kosher for Passover food to approximately 104 food pantry sites citywide.

“Met Council believes it is unacceptable that any Jew go hungry, or be deprived of the food needed to create their seders and other Passover meals,” stated Alan Schoor, Chief Executive Officer of Met Council. “Everyone should have the opportunity to celebrate the holiday with dignity and joy. In one of the wealthiest cities in the world, there are more than 500,000 poor and near-poor individuals living in Jewish households. It is not only our mission, but our obligation, to ensure that the most vulnerable New Yorkers, no matter their circumstances, have access to kosher for Passover food, and to kosher food year round. “

The cost of kosher for Passover food is considerably higher than kosher food during the rest of the year, which makes it impossible for many to purchase the ingredients needed for the holiday. Last year, Met Council distributed approximately 1.8 million pounds of kosher for Passover food through our 110 food pantries, providing food to nearly 160,000 people.

“It takes months to prepare for Passover,” said Allison Deal, Director, Kosher Food Network. “Our goal is to serve as many people as possible. We understand the financial challenges our clients and others face at this holiday. With the help of our partners in government, private donors and local Jewish Community Councils, we are able to work towards meeting this need, in each community throughout the city.”

It is estimated that 400 volunteers will assist at 40 sites throughout the five boroughs. More than 25 community partners will spread the word to their constituents to enlist volunteers. Met Council’s Volunteer Services Department will coordinate all volunteer activities including assisting at local pantries by stocking pantry shelves and organizing food, as well as distributing food directly to individuals in need. To ensure that families in need are assisted year round, volunteers will also screen clients for all available government benefits, including SNAP (formally Food Stamps).

Passover begins at sunset on Monday, April 10. If you or someone you know needs food or other assistance during this holiday, please call 212-453-9539. If you would like to volunteer at a Passover Food Distribution, please email [email protected].

(YWN Headquarters – NYC)