Submitted by Rachel Mehta
The Jewish Family Service (JFS) recently celebrated the charitable work of Knead to Feed, a challah bread baking organization based out of Temple Har Shalom in Warren. The Community Service Recognition Award was presented to Knead to Feed founders at the JFS’ 38th annual meeting on June 6, 2018.
Kneed to Feed at Temple Har Shalom was born out of a sermon delivered by Rabbi Randi Musnitsky in 2013 about the plague of hunger and food insecurity in New Jersey. What resulted was congregants coming together to bake nearly 100 loaves of challah and mandel bread a month, fostering a stronger sense of community and engaging members of their congregation through the exploration of Jewish culinary art. As the loaves are sold, every bite of the fresh challah goes to fight hunger, and to date –the congregation has donated over $25,000 to local hunger-related organizations.
About Temple Har Shalom
Temple Har Shalom is an active and vibrant Reform congregation established in 1970 on the principle of inclusion. We are a Jewish community that welcomes all, providing a sacred space where we can learn from Torah and feel inspired to improve our local community and the world at large. Led by Rabbi Randi Musnitsky and Cantor Anna Berman, Temple Har Shalom melds the rich history of Judaism with the practicalities of 21st century Jewish life and culture.
The synagogue offers innovative programming for all ages – from our Mountain Top School preschool through Hebrew High School (Machon) to adult education courses. Engaging speakers, social action opportunities and a variety of activities round out a strong and committed membership.
About Jewish Family Service
JFS of Somerset, Hunterdon and Warren Counties, serving the community since 1980, is committed to strengthening the quality of individual and family life and provides a continuum of programs and services toward that end. Licensed clinical social workers provide individual, couple and family as well as geriatric assessments, supportive counseling and case management services for homebound elderly. The Family Mentor Program recruits, trains and matches volunteers with vulnerable young families, as well as with elderly persons for friendly, supportive, in-home visits. Families with children with special needs are assisted through social groups, parent groups and through the Family Mentor Program. Career Counseling helps individuals in many aspects of their job search. Ohr Tikvah-Light of Hope Jewish Healing Services offers presentations, support groups, and individual spiritual counseling to address the health, wellness and healing needs of the community. All information is confidential. Many programs are at no cost, on a sliding fee scale or payable through third party insurance.
(above l-r) Two of the Knead to Feed Founders, Marsha Heller and Amy Hecht, hold the Community Service Recognition Award presented to the organization by Jewish Family Service.
