Spreading the Light: Food Packages Distributed in Moscow to Families in Need

The Gabboim and staff of the Shaarei Tzedek Chesed Center of Moscow are going the extra mile while arranging and distributing thousands of food packages to the elderly, Jews in need and large families across the city. This year, upon Chief Rabbi of Russia Berel Lazar’s personal request, more items were added to the packages and more people got more assistance – Mosif Veholech, just as Chanukah teaches us.

The Magen Avraham teaches that there was an ancient Minhag to give special Tzedakah on Chanukah. Being that the poor felt uncomfortable getting help, they used to send their children who would go around on Chanukah and knock on doors asking for donations. Then the kids got uncomfortable, too, and that’s how the Minhag of Chanukah Gelt was established. Here in Moscow, the community leaders

are doing everything they can so that everyone feels comfortable, making sure no one has to stand in line and even delivering packages to families’ homes.

This initiative is a part of a large variety of programs done by the Chesed Center during Chanukah which includes daily official candle lighting featuring another VIP every evening, beautiful concerts and other programs for the elderly, while the common goal is to make sure that each and every attendee walks away with a smile. It is an honor and a privilege for each of the dignitaries to inspire and bring a smile to so many Jews. All this is part of the endless care the Center gives Jews in Moscow all year round.

Photo: Levi Nazarov