I hope you’ve had a great week and a nice Passover. As the news continues to come out about federal funding cuts, the numbers being thrown around can feel too large to comprehend or can feel like they are distant. I wanted to let you know that these cuts are affecting several of our Jewish communal organizations, including the Alliance. Federal funding touches many parts of our Jewish community, from security to social services, to the work we do in support of others. Today I want to focus on the impact on social services and to ask for your help. 

One of the places that saw immediate impacts from federal funding cuts is Jewish Collaborative Services, our partner agency who leads social service efforts in our Rhode Island Jewish community.

Click here to read the transcribed version of the Shabbat message.

Here is where you can help. The Kosher Food Pantry accepts food donations from community members, and they have a variety of needs, including cereal, jam, oatmeal, coffee, and much more. You can find a full list of items needed in this morning’s Shabbat message email. Those wishing to donate items can contact Kristany Jaycox at Jewish Collaborative Services to arrange the drop off. I included her contact information in the email as well. 

Passover is a holiday that not only reminds us of our journey from slavery to freedom, but that as a Jewish people we have experienced difficult times and that we get through them when we come together. I hope you can help us join together to help those in our community that need it most. 

Full list of needed items: 

  • Jelly/Jam (regular & sugar free)
  • Cereal (Raisin Bran or Rice Krispies)
  • Oatmeal - Instant or Quick Oats (no individual packets/cups)
  • Coffee (regular or decaf)
  • Tea (any kind)
  • Sardines (in oil or water)
  • White Albacore Tuna
  • Ensure, Boost or diabetic shakes
  • Only the following canned goods: peas, beets, chickpeas, olives 

For more information, and to coordinate a drop-off time, contact Kristany Jaycox at kristany@jcsri.org or 401.369.5052. 

Until next time, I wish you a safe, peaceful, and joyous Shabbat. 

Shabbat Shalom,
Adam Greenman
President & CEO