(PHOENIX – Feb 28, 2023) –Jewish Family & Children’s Service (JFCS) and the Bureau of Jewish Education (BJE) are once again hosting their Passover Food Drive and need the community’s help.

In the past year, Jewish Family and Children’s Service has seen a startling increase in the number of people experiencing food insecurity. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, food prices climbed 10 percent in 2022.

“JFCS wants to ensure that everyone in our Jewish community has access to the food they need to observe a traditional Passover,” says JFCS Jewish Program Manager Kathy Rood. “We’re asking the community to support our efforts by making a monetary or food donation so we can help ensure a meaningful holiday for more than 200 Valley families.”

Individuals can also support the effort by making a monetary donation via check sent to Bureau of Jewish Education-Passover Food Drive, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite 206, Scottsdale, AZ 85254 or online at https://www.jfcsaz.org/donate/donate-online-now/passover/. All monetary donations will be used to purchase perishables such as whole Kosher chickens, and to supplement the food collected from Passover drop-off location boxes.

Food items can be dropped off at the Ina Levine Jewish Community Campus and local synagogues in the Passover Food Drive collection boxes by March 30. Requested Kosher for Passover non-perishable food items include but are not limited to matzah, gefilte fish, wine, grape juice, matzah ball (and soup) mix, horseradish, candy, cookies, cake mixes, and matzah farfel.

If you or someone you know needs assistance in celebrating Passover this year, contact Jewish Community Services at [email protected] or 602-452-4627.

ABOUT:
Jewish Family & Children’s Service (JFCS) is a non-profit, non-sectarian organization that strengthens the community by providing behavioral health, healthcare and social services to all ages, faiths and backgrounds. JFCS’ goal is for a future where families are strong, where elders are cared for and where children are safe. The dedication to the mission is strengthened by a commitment to core Jewish values that honor community and the continuity of the generations. More information about JFCS and ways to support the organization’s mission are available at http://www.jfcsaz.org.