Project Isaiah, the Jewish community’s annual High Holidays food drive benefiting the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona, begins Sept. 15 and runs through Oct. 15.
When asked why we fast on Yom Kippur, the prophet Isaiah responded, “Is it not to share your bread with the hungry?” (Isaiah 58:6).
In Pima County, more than 15 percent of the population faces food insecurity, according to the food bank.
“In the spirit of prophet Isaiah, our Jewish community embraces sharing food with the hungry. By filling a bag or making a donation for the Community Food Bank, we demonstrate one of our most important Jewish values, tzedakah (charity). Keep the less fortunate in your minds and hearts during Project Isaiah,” says Beverly Sandock, planning and marketing associate for the Jewish Federation of Southern Arizona.
The Jewish Community Relations Council, part of the Federation’s community engagement department, coordinates Project Isaiah. Bagged donations may be dropped off at local synagogues and Jewish agencies. Most needed items include canned meats and vegetables, canned soups, cereal and granola bars, peanut butter, rice and pasta, beans, canned tomato products and fruit.
To make a monetary donation, mail check payable to the JCRC to Jewish Federation of Southern Arizona, Attn: Beverly Sandock, 3718 E. River Road, Suite 100, Tucson, AZ 85718, or call 577-9393 to donate by credit card. With each $2 donated, the food bank can provide seven meals to seniors, children, and families in need.
To schedule a volunteer date at the Community Food Bank for your organization, call 882-3292. Friends and families are welcome.
For more information, contact Sandock at bsandock@jfsa.org.
