Handmaker has been providing kosher meals to its residents and the community for over 60 years, and the Passover holiday is no exception. At Handmaker, observing Passover is a huge endeavor that requires the cooperation of staff, residents, and family members. The days and weeks leading up to Passover are full of preparation for the holiday, keeping Handmaker Executive Chef Claire Ferguson and Director of Food and Facility Services Mike Felde very busy. Literally tons of Passover foods are ordered, received, and sorted through, and non-Passover food items are cleared out as the kitchen is prepared, all with the help of Rabbi Yossie Shemtov. New menus for Passover have been planned for all meals throughout the holiday, as well as for the special Seder meals.
While many staff members, residents, and family members have been at Handmaker for previous Passovers, or may be familiar with how it is observed, for others, this may be the first time. Therefore, Passover training is necessary for staff members every year before the holiday to ensure that all dietary restrictions are understood and honored. Staff training was held on Wednesday, March 18, led by Rabbi Shemtov, Claire, and Mike. Residents will also have opportunities to learn about Passover before the holiday begins, so that they too are prepared to observe and celebrate.
Handmaker will host Passover Seders on April 1 and April 2 (beginning at 4:30 p.m.), led by Nanci and Doug Levy, and Rabbi Dr. Howard Schwartz. Passover Festival Services will be held on April 2 and April 8 at 9 a.m., led by Mel Cohen, Dan Asia, and Jon Tepper. All residents are invited to join these celebrations. Some residents have already invited family members to the Seders, and guests from outside of Handmaker are invited to attend as well. There is no cost for residents to attend a Seder, but there is a cost of $45 for all guests. All reservations must be made by Friday, March 27 by contacting Nanci Levy at 520-322-3632 or [email protected].
Those in the Tucson community who would like to order food for their Passover Seders from Handmaker, or for any day during Passover, can check out the offerings on the Handmaker website: https://www.handmaker.org/about/dining-catering. Orders for Seder meals must be made by Friday, March 27 and orders for other meals should be made 48 hours in advance for best availability, all by calling Claire at 520-322-3639.
