What took place over several days was more than a distribution effort. It was an act of care, dignity, and collective responsibility, made possible through extraordinary volunteer engagement, strong community partnerships, and the unwavering commitment of JCCGCI staff.

For many older adults, especially Holocaust survivors living on fixed incomes, the cost and logistics of preparing for Pesach can be overwhelming. This initiative ensured that hundreds of individuals were able to enter the holiday with peace of mind and the ability to observe Pesach with dignity. Each carefully prepared bag included a wide range of Pesach essentials and nutritious staples, including matzah, shmurah matzah, grape juice, chicken, eggs, tuna, jam, borscht, carrots, onions, potatoes, sweet potatoes, matzah ball mix, tomato sauce, macaroons, and applesauce. These items helped ensure that recipients could prepare meaningful holiday meals without financial strain or uncertainty.

Over the course of March 23rd through March 25th, JCCGCI staff and volunteers worked side by side to pack and distribute 900 food packages. What could have been a logistical challenge instead became a powerful display of coordination, teamwork, and shared purpose, as every hand on deck helped ensure that hundreds of older adults and Holocaust survivors received support in time for Pesach.

The success of this distribution was powered by an incredible network of volunteers who gave their time, energy, and compassion to support the effort.

We were proud to welcome student volunteers from Magen David Yeshiva, Yeshiva of Flatbush, and Mazel Day School, who worked tirelessly packing food bags with care and enthusiasm. We were also joined by volunteers from Public Health Solutions, along with civic partners including Raul Rothblatt from the NYC Commission on Human Rights, Chris McCreight from Council Member Kayla Santosuosso’s office, and Sergey Chuprik from Comptroller Mark Levine’s office. Their presence reflected a shared commitment across communities and institutions to ensure that older adults and survivors are supported during the most meaningful times of the year.

At its heart, this initiative reflects what JCCGCI stands for. Supporting older adults, preserving dignity, and ensuring that Holocaust survivors are never forgotten.For many recipients, these food packages represent more than holiday provisions. They represent reassurance, connection, and the knowledge that their community sees them, values them, and stands with them.

This work would not be possible without the support of dedicated public partners, community leaders, and institutional allies who continue to invest in programs that serve those most in need. We extend our sincere gratitude to all those who supported and contributed to this year’s Pesach Food Distribution and helped bring this effort to life, with special thanks to the Met Council for sponsoring this distribution, as well as the Claims Conference for its continued partnership and support.

While Pesach is a moment of heightened need, JCCGCI’s commitment to older adults and Holocaust survivors continues throughout the year. Through transportation services, older adult centers, homecare support, case management, social services, and our extensive Holocaust Survivor Support Services division, we serve thousands of individuals daily. This distribution is one part of a much larger mission: ensuring that dignity, stability, and care are never seasonal, but constant.