The summer months have begun with good news in Israel as the government continues to ease restrictions and reopen its economy. Many of whom have been unemployed for months are getting back to work and adjusting back to normal life. Additionally, many of the restrictions that inhibited Meir Panim’s ability to care for the needy are being lifted. 

This week, Israel has granted all restaurants to reopen which means that Meir Panim can officially open all of their Restaurant-Style Soup Kitchens across Israel! There are still many limitations in place, including a 6-foot space between tables and a limit to one person or family per table. Meanwhile, most meals are still prepared and packaged for takeout or to be delivered through our Meals-on-Wheels program. 

Another highlight this week has been that our Holocaust Survivor Day Center in Dimona has reopened! This past Monday, the group of Holocaust Survivors were able to come together – while taking various safety measures – and reconnected after the long isolation period. The members who were not able to join were delivered meals to their homes which brought a huge smile to their faces. The Dimona staff were thrilled to be able to bring the group of Holocaust Survivors, which they consider like family, to be back together again!

In other news from Meir Panim, last week was a big week as volunteers across the country prepared our clients for the holiday of Shavuot. Each client received meal kits for both the Thursday night meal and Friday day meal along with fresh produce to help make the holiday a little more special! A special thanks goes out to all the local contributors for making this possible!