Leket UK raises more than £160,000 for emergency relief programmes

The UK branch of Leket Israel, the National Food Bank, welcomed 160 guests for a dinner event at South Hampstead synagogue, raising £160,000 for the charity’s emergency relief programmes.

Israeli chefs Sarit Packer and Itamar Srulovich, co-founders of the renowned Honey & Co, collaborated with kosher caterer Ben Tenenblat to create an unforgettable culinary experience.

The monies raised will support Leket Israel’s emergency relief programmes to provide cooked meals for Israelis affected by the war.

Joseph Gitler, founder and chairman of Leket Israel said: “We want to thank everyone who contributed to making the ‘Taste For Israel’ event such a success. This remarkable achievement would not have been possible without the unwavering support of the sponsors, donors, and volunteers who dedicated their time, resources, and expertise to make this event a reality. Their commitment to Leket Israel’s mission has made a profound difference in the lives of those who struggle to meet their most basic needs.

“Since October, Leket Israel has reinvented its business model to ensure essential food support to residents and evacuees from northern and southern Israel. We have also given a tremendous amount of support to our farmers, the biggest donors to Leket Israel, who are suffering greatly during this time.”

Paul Filer, Leket UK Chair said: “The fantastic success of our appeal dinner shows people recognise that supporting Leket is an excellent way to feed Israelis in need. ‘Taste For Israel’ reflects the power of collective action and the profound impact that individuals can make when they unite behind a common cause. The event not only celebrated the vibrant and flavourful Israeli cuisine but also symbolized the unity and compassion that characterizes the Jewish community in the UK”.

During routine times, Leket Israel rescues fresh agricultural produce from farms and hot meals from hotels, corporate cafeterias and IDF army bases and redistributes it through a network of 296 nonprofit partner agencies. In 2023, Leket Israel collected 32,200 tons of fruit and vegetables and 2.3 million meals for the benefit of 330,000 Israelis in need each week.

For more information about Leket Israel and how you can get involved, click here.