First, I want to acknowledge the incredible work that organizations such as Tomchei Shabbos and many others do for families in our community. The dedication and generosity behind these efforts are truly admirable, and many families benefit greatly from the support.

At the same time, I would like to share a thought regarding families who may need temporary assistance, and especially during financially challenging periods such as before Pesach.

For some people, the process of signing up, going through interviews, and then arriving at a distribution site where their car is loaded with pre-selected boxes of food can be difficult and, at times, embarrassing. Many of these families are accustomed to shopping for their own food, going to the grocery store, selecting their own produce, choosing the items their family prefers, and maintaining a sense of normalcy and independence.

When assistance comes in the form of pre-packed boxes, whether meat, fish, produce, pantry staples, wine or grape juice, or disposable goods, it takes away that freedom. While the help is certainly appreciated, the experience can feel less dignified for families who are simply going through a temporary hardship.

Perhaps for some of these situations, a different approach could be considered. Instead of loading cars with large quantities of predetermined items, an organization could send a grocery gift card in the equivalent amount that would have been spent on the food packages. This would allow families to shop for themselves, select the foods they need, and maintain their dignity while still receiving the support they require.

Being able to walk into a store and shop like anyone else can make a meaningful difference in how assistance is experienced. Sometimes the most respectful way to help someone is to allow them to maintain their independence while receiving that help.

This is simply a thought offered with appreciation for the tremendous work being done and with the hope that we can continue finding ways to support people in the most dignified and sensitive manner possible.

A.B.

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