Our Neighbors Need Us
DID YOU KNOW… that the JFS Food Pantry provided 24,000 meals to those in need over the past year!
Over the past few months, I have used these Friday emails to inform and educate, but right now thousands of families across North Carolina are facing an uncertain future and need our help. The federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) program — which for years has helped low-income households afford groceries — is currently in a state of limbo due to the government shutdown.
For the 1.4 million North Carolinians who rely on these benefits, this means one simple, devastating truth: they may not know where their next meal will come from. The Jewish Federation of Greater Raleigh is ready to take the lead and play a vital role in stepping into that gap, providing essential support, ensuring dignity for those in need, and mobilizing the community to respond.
At the Jewish Federation of Greater Raleigh, we believe that no one should go hungry. The Jewish values of tzedakah (righteous giving) and tikkun olam (repairing the world) call us to act — to ensure that every person in our community can live with dignity, security, and hope.
The loss of SNAP support is already placing a tremendous strain on local food banks, including our Jewish Family Services Food pantry. Food banks estimate that for every single meal they provide, SNAP provides nine. With that vital lifeline on hold, the demand for emergency food and financial assistance is growing daily.
To aid in this, our JFS Food Assistance program is taking the necessary steps to help those in our community.
Increasing stock of shelf stable foods in the JFS Food Pantry
Adding additional days and times for food pantry drop off and pick up
Increasing volunteer hours to help restock the shelves or deliver meals as needed
We are stepping up to meet this moment — but we can’t do it alone. Here’s how YOU can help:
Donate Food
What should you donate to our food pantry? We take out all the guess work! Donate from our Food Pantry Wish List, then drop it off during our extended hours.
Donate Funds Today
Every dollar you give allows us to purchase nutritious food in bulk, keep pantry shelves stocked, and provide emergency financial assistance to families suddenly without support. Your gift makes an immediate impact. Donate now!
Volunteer Your Time
Help us organize, pack, and distribute food through our JFS Food Pantry. A few hours of your time can bring relief — and hope — to someone struggling to feed their family. Volunteer here!
Host a Food Drive
Rally your synagogue, school, or neighborhood to collect shelf-stable foods, hygiene items, and household essentials. Together, we can fill the shelves for those who suddenly have nowhere else to turn. Contact Ilene Mlot at ilene.mlot@shalomraleigh.org for more information!
Spread the Word
Share this message with friends and family. The more people who understand the urgent need, the more lives we can touch. Share our posts on Facebook and Instagram!
When government assistance falls short, community must step in. Together, we can make sure that no one in Wake County or beyond goes to bed hungry.
Thank you for being part of a compassionate Jewish community that lives its values through action. Your support keeps hope alive and sustains our neighbors in their time of need. Donate now!
