During the pandemic, many citizens have lost their jobs, have had their work hours cut, and have found that the limited resources they had no longer suffice. In times like these, it is fortunate that Montclair has caring institutions to support people until the national economic crisis improves.

At Shomrei, we have been concerned about the ever-expanding food insecurity in our town. One of our ongoing efforts has been our work in providing weekly dinners for people through MESH.

The Shomrei Social Action Committee created a subcommittee during Summer 2020 that would focus on food insecurity. One of our first initiatives was to connect with the Human Needs Food Pantry to collaborate on their annual Thanksgiving collection. Continue reading →

Dear MESH Supporters,

Even though it’s been over seven months since we’ve been able to welcome guests to the Carol Starr MESH Cafe at Shomrei, Shomrei has continued to do the mitzvah of providing meals to food insecure members of our community. Through the generosity of numerous congregants, we have been able to fund 40 takeaway meals from Villa Victoria Restaurant on Park Street in Montclair, every Tuesday in May through June and resuming again in September.

Villa Victoria is a convenient location to reach and, according to Dr. Gwen Ames, Executive Director of MESH, our guests LOVE the food they receive. The guests in the photos agreed to have their pictures in Shomreiweek because they want to show us their appreciation.

If you would like to contribute to Shomrei’s MESH fund to ensure that we can continue to do this vital mitzvah, donations are always welcome.

To make a donation to MESH, go to: shomrei.org/donate

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About MESH:

The Carol Starr MESH Cafe at Shomrei (Montclair Emergency Services for the Homeless) is a cooperative effort between the MESH organization and local synagogues and churches. While in-person service has been discontinued, donations from each institution are being used to provide hearty, nutritious meals for the hungry. Shomrei’s turn is on Tuesday nights. Please help fulfill this crucial mitzvah by making a donation at: shomrei.org/donate.

Have questions?

Contact:
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On Tuesday evening, 4/7/20, Shomrei’s MESH Cafe funded 40 takeaway meals from Villa Victoria Restaurant on Park St in Montclair. MESH Guests line up one by one in compliance with social distancing and are given a salad, 2 slices of pizza with protein and a beverage.

According to MESH Executive Director, Dr. Gwen Ames, our guests love this meal.  If less than 40 guests show up, MESH staff distribute the remainder of the meals at the Bay Street train station where homeless often congregate. Mr Joe Tyson, MESH security personnel, told me that MESH is distributing masks to help the guests protect themselves from exposure to the virus.

Continue reading →