This October, Jewish Family Services (JFS) is partnering with the Rabbinical Association of Greater Kansas City for the annual High Holiday Food Drive, JFS’ largest collection effort of the year. The drive begins on Oct. 2 (Erev Rosh Hashanah) and will continue through the conclusion of the holidays on Oct. 25.
JFS food pantries support more than 550 households each month with food, personal care items and household goods.
According to JFS Director of Pantry Partnerships Jo Hickey, community donations provide nearly 50% of what the agency needs to keep the pantry shelves full. Rising food costs have greatly impacted the demand for services and the donations received.
JFS’ most needed items are canned tomato products, soup, canned fruit, paper towels, body lotion and bar soap.
“By participating in this drive with JFS, we not only fulfill a sacred duty to care for those in need within our community, but also strengthen the bonds that unite us all,” said Rabbi Rachel Rothstein of The Temple, Congregation B’nai Jehudah and JFS board member. “On behalf of the Rabbinical Association, we invite everyone to come together in the spirit of starting 5785 with compassion and generosity to ensure that every individual and family has the sustenance they deserve during this holy season and beyond.”
There are three ways the community can participate:
Fill a grocery bag with shelf-stable items and drop off in a JFS barrel at participating Jewish congregations, The J or JFS Brookside. Congregation members should check with their place of worship for drop-off deadlines.
Shop online and ship items directly to JFS. JFS has an Amazon Wish List to shop from at amzn.to/3XH5v7Z.
Make a financial donation at jfskc.org/donate or mailed to JFS, 5801 W. 115th St., Suite 103, Overland Park, KS 66211.
More information is available by calling (913) 327-8257 or emailing Jo Hickey at .
