As Thanksgiving approaches, many are preparing to celebrate with large feasts. Meanwhile, others, who may not be as fortunate, go without.

That’s why the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia’s Mitzvah Food Program annually delivers turkeys to those in need so all can enjoy a Thanksgiving meal with nutritious and filling food – such as the Perez Santiago family.

“The past five years we all have gone through difficult times through COVID and the high prices of house essentials,” said Iris Perez Santiago, mother of three. “Institutions, like the Mitzvah Food Program, make great changes in our neighbors' lives by helping to provide weekly food so we don't run out for our family.”

The Perez Santiago family received one of the Mitzvah Food Program’s 564 turkeys and chickens, totaling 4,408 pounds of poultry, this November. Additionally, over $14,000 was collected in grocery store gift cards to supplement clients' needs during this holiday season

But the Mitzvah Food Program does not just operate during the holidays – it fights hunger throughout the year.

Since 1996, the Mitzvah Food Program has served food insecure individuals and families in Greater Philadelphia. Operating out of four pantry sites in Old York Road, Main Line, Bucks County and Northeast, recipients can select their own fresh, frozen and nonperishable food with kosher options through a points system that incentivizes healthier eating. A choice-based model, the Mitzvah Food Program recognizes that those in need may be unable to eat items from prepackaged boxes due to cultural, health or personal preference reasons.

“The Jewish Federation’s mission has always put serving vulnerable populations at the forefront, which is underscored by its Mitzvah Food Program to provide food to those in need during the holidays and all year round,” said Operations Manager of the Food Pantry Whitney Drukier. 

Last fiscal year, the Mitzvah Food Program distributed nearly 1.1 million pounds of food to over 7,000 people in need. 

“The Mitzvah Food Program is dedicated to serving our clients with dignity, which includes understanding the importance of traditional family holiday celebrations,” Drukier continued of the program, which serves the whole Greater Philadelphia area, regardless of race, religion or financial background. “We try our best to serve our clients with nutritious holiday foods so they may continue to celebrate these holidays, just like everyone else.”

For one client of the Bucks County pantry, the Mitzvah Food Program provided them with not only essential food, but also an opportunity to enjoy a time of year that is traditionally marked with loneliness.  

“The turkey I received last year provided me the opportunity to spend Thanksgiving with my cousin. I live alone and the holidays are difficult for me,” said the client, name withheld for anonymity. “It was nice to spend time with my cousin. I would not have been able to do this without the Mitzvah Food Program. I rely on them to supplement all my food and it is very much appreciated.”

Supporting these efforts is a strong volunteer base, which helped with this year’s holiday distribution over the course of four nonconsecutive days. In addition, the Mitzvah Food Program’s partners, Share Food Program and Philabundance, played a vital role in supplying some of the turkeys, chickens, and traditional side dishes, such as cranberry sauce, green beans, cornbread, stuffing, and gravy.

“Philabundance is proud to partner with the Mitzvah Food Program to provide access to nutritious food for our neighbors, especially during the Thanksgiving season,” said Philabundance CEO Loree D. Jones Brown, noting the organization’s 20 year partnership with the Mitzvah Food Program. “At Philabundance, we believe everyone deserves the warmth of a holiday meal. Working hand-in-hand with our partners to distribute these meals exemplifies our mission to alleviate hunger and build a stronger, more connected community.”

This collaborative mission of combating hunger this holiday season and year round is needed now more than ever, given the 25% rise in food insecurity in the Greater Philadelphia region, according to Feeding America’s 2024 Map the Meal Gap study.

“This month is a special time of celebration for our family with Thanksgiving,” Perez Santiago continued. “It's a time of unity and togetherness. We really appreciate the Mitzvah Food Program’s help making the celebration more special.” 

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