Pesach appeal smashes target to raise £440,000 to help families in crisis

An appeal to help over 4,000 people and families in crisis this Pesach has smashed its original target to raise over £440,000.

The United Synagogue’s Chesed appeal, which ran over Sunday and Monday, had originally hoped to raise £300,000.

The money raised will provide food vouchers, Seder boxes and general supplies for those in need.

“We are so grateful to all those who donated and we truly appreciate all of the support,” said Michelle Minsky, head of United Synagogue Chesed. 

“Every donation will make a real difference to the families and individuals we help.” She added her thanks to those who had matched the donations, enabling them to be doubled.

Those who’ve been supported by the Chesed department have opened up to Jewish News about their experiences of loneliness or financial difficulties.

One, a 72-year-old man who Jewish News has called Samuel to protect his identity, said he had fallen into difficulty after the death of his partner of 25 years last year.

“When she passed away, I found it very hard to take,” he said. “She was so full of life, such a lovely, kind person,” he said.

However he added that the befriending calls and food parcels he gets through the service is a “lifeline.”

Another, a mum with teenage children who began to struggle financially when the family lost work during the pandemic, added that the food boxes she received through her shul “brings the struggle right back down.”