Hello,
My name is Josh Martino and my family and I are members of the Beth El congregation. I serve as the Board Chair for Feeding Northeast Florida and have recently initiated a program to feed and care for over 90 Holocaust Survivors currently residing on the First Coast.
On Hanukkah, each night we reflect on the blessings we have received and share gifts with our loved ones. It is not about what we give, as much as why we are giving it. This is why Hanukkah is the perfect opportunity to give Tzedakah. This year rather than giving gifts to each other on the first night of Hanukkah, my family is going to provide a truly meaningful gift that provides healthy meals to Holocaust Survivors in our community.
In the times of the Maccabees, the king Antiochus tried to eliminate Jewish values and traditions. Just as his attempt failed, so too have all others. As a way to remember this fact, my family will be supporting Feeding Northeast Florida’s Holocaust Survivor Program, which provides healthy kosher meals to 30 Holocaust Survivors who live in Duval County, and over 90 Survivors living on the First Coast. This program provides Survivors kindness, comfort, care and most importantly lets them know they are not forgotten.
The meals provided are delivered to Survivors twice a month and include healthy proteins, such as fish, produce, and a staple of dry goods to ensure that they don’t have to worry about where their next meal is coming from or having to make the difficult decision between food or utilities, rent, and medical expenses.
If you are interested in donating to this program, please click on the link below:
I am proud to be part our community, one that honors our past and embraces our future. So as we celebrate the Festival of Lights, please help us aid a Survivor in need. Thank you for your consideration and have a very Happy Hanukkah.
Sincerely,
Josh Marino
