It was a busy, busy day in Shomrei’s kitchen as Aileen Grossberg and Rhonda Silver prepared 25 hearty takeaway meals for MESH’s new indoor site at the former Office Restaurant.

Aileen was able to fill in for Shirley Grill, who was sidelined by COVID. But we MESHIES are always ready to do a quick pivot.

We prepared a filling – and colorful- meal of semi homemade coleslaw, bright with orange carrots; a marinated tomato, cucumber and multi-colored pepper relish; parmesan and garlic crusted baked tilapia, with a piece of lemon; roasted carrots with herbs. The main meal was accompanied by a buttered roll. A juicy orange and a homemade cookie (supplied by Lindsey and Jordan Sag) completed the meal and filled the bulging bag.

The kitchen smelled divine from the roasting garlic in the fish crust.

Charlie Breslin, accompanied by twins Kate and Lila, delivered the bags of food and stayed to provide conversation with the MESH guests. They also helped decorate the Christmas tree and set up the tables with festive Christmas tablecloths. Although the girls said they missed hosting in the synagogue, the guests like going to one regular place.

We need volunteers to pick up the takeaway bags at Shomrei, deliver them to The Office, and stay for about an hour to provide conversation and support Mr. Tyson, from the MESH staff.

If you would like to help out please use the sign up at: shomrei.org/mesh