JCS Kosher Food Bank Helps Feed Hundreds in Miami

Through our partner agency, Jewish Community Services of South Florida (JCS), and generous contributions to the Annual Federation/UJA Campaign, hundreds of underserved and at-risk families in Miami, in addition to many Holocaust survivors, have access to the JCS Kosher Food Bank. Shoppers can choose from a variety of non-perishable staples, canned goods, fresh produce, meat and frozen items. In response to growing demand, the Food Bank plans to expand its facility to 4,500 square feet.

Professionals at JCS know that food shortage is often the symptom of other underlying problems, which is why everyone who visits the Food Bank also receives a comprehensive evaluation to assess his/her overall needs. Recommendations and appointments can be made to help with government benefits services, mental health services and/or employment counseling.

Day schools, synagogues and other Jewish institutions in Miami-Dade County all lend a helping hand to the Food Bank, supporting it with a variety of fundraisers throughout the year. Federation, too, regularly collects and donates items. Last week, Hebrew Academy (RASG), one of 10 Federation-funded Miami-Dade day schools, held its Annual Second Grade Restaurant Fundraiser. The Beauty and the Feast Café opened for a day. Students greeted “customers,” took orders, served as cashiers and prepared and served food. Students were able to practice their math skills in an everyday setting, while performing an act of tzedekah at the same time. The Café raised close to $1,500 for the Food Bank. Bonnie Schwartzbaum, Director of the Food Bank, loved attending the event and said, “Students do every job, from designing the menu to the cooking. They learn not only about math, but also about good social skills, and the importance of doing mitzvahs and helping others.”

Click here to learn how your contribution to the Annual Campaign supports more than 100 partner agencies and programs in Miami, in Israel and around the world.