From IDF reservist families to Holocaust survivors, discover how Meir Panim is transforming lives this Chanukah and preparing for a brighter 2025.
Spreading Light Amid Despair
As Chanukah begins and the year 2024 comes to a close, countless families across Israel are struggling with poverty, loneliness, and the devastating toll of war. For many, the light of Chanukah feels distant and dim. Yet, Meir Panim is stepping in to reignite hope and restore dignity to those who need it most.
“Chanukah reminds us that even in the darkest times, light has the power to shine through,” says Mimi Rozmaryn, director of Global Development at Meir Panim. “This year, so many Israelis are facing unimaginable poverty, loneliness, and struggle. In 2023, prices rose by 4.2%, leaving close to 20% of Israel in poverty. Our mission is to ensure no one celebrates alone or hungry.”
The Silent Struggles of IDF Reservist Families
Among those Meir Panim is reaching this Chanukah are IDF reservist families facing the overwhelming strain of prolonged separation. Many fathers have spent over 200 days on reserve duty this year, leaving their families to navigate daily life without them.
Tamar, a mother of three, shared her family’s struggles during her husband’s extended absence. “It’s been so crazy juggling a job, sick kids, and running a household alone while missing my husband and not knowing where he is, sometimes for weeks at a time. He was also the main breadwinner, and we have been thrown into debt since we lost his income.”
Recognizing these families’ unique challenges, Meir Panim launched a new program that provides weekly dinners and support for 250 reservist families, offering moments of connection and relief. Coming home after a long day of work to a messy house and not having to worry about dinner is a lifeline. When we got it the first week, I cried,” Tamar shared.
Winter Brings New Challenges
As the temperature drops, the challenges for Israel’s vulnerable only deepen. Holocaust survivors, displaced families, and those living in poverty are struggling to stay warm and fed, many unable to afford a daily hot meal, basic necessities, or heating for their homes.
“Winter in Israel can be brutal for those who have nothing,” says Rozmaryn. “That’s why we are working tirelessly to provide warm blankets, coats, gloves, and scarves, as well as hot meals delivered to the elderly and disabled homebound.
In addition to distributing essential winter supplies, Meir Panim’s branches have become a haven for those seeking refuge from the cold. For families who cannot afford heating, a bowl of hot soup or a warm meal provides both physical comfort and a place to connect with others in the same situation.
At our Jerusalem branch, a Holocaust survivor named Chana expressed her gratitude after receiving a warm coat and a hot meal. “I didn’t know how I would survive this winter,” she said tearfully. “But Meir Panim reminded me that people still care.”
2024: A Year of Impact
Despite the challenges of endless rockets, suicide drones, and war, Meir Panim has been a lifeline for thousands of Israelis this year. From nourishing hungry families to uplifting soldiers and Holocaust survivors, the organization’s reach has been transformative.
In 2024 alone, Meir Panim served 1,250,000 meals at its restaurant-style soup kitchens, delivered 500,000 care packages to IDF soldiers and displaced families, provided daily meals and support to 2,200 Holocaust survivors, and renovated 500 homes for those living in dire conditions. These efforts have restored dignity, hope, and stability to thousands of lives.
The organization also distributed 25,000 sets of critical gear, including bulletproof vests, first-aid kits, and helmets, for IDF soldiers, and 125,000 holiday pantry boxes for each major holiday. It supported 10,000 families weekly through its Free Shuk (Market), where individuals could choose farm-fresh produce like in a regular market.
“This is what spreading light looks like,” Rozmaryn emphasizes. “It’s meals for soldiers, warmth for Holocaust survivors, and comfort for families whose hearts are heavy.”
Bringing Light Into 2025
For many, this Chanukah will be spent struggling to survive another day, but Meir Panim is determined to ensure that no one is forgotten. Through festive celebrations, warm meals, and critical aid, the organization is helping families, IDF soldiers, and survivors rediscover light.
“As the year comes to an end, this is a time to reflect on how we can make an impact,” Rozmaryn urges. “Your generosity not only brings light to those in desperate need but also helps you maximize your end-of-year giving with a tax-deductible donation.”
By giving today, you can help ensure that Meir Panim’s life-saving work continues into 2025. From nourishing families to supporting IDF reservists, your donation makes a tangible difference.
Join the mission to spread light across Israel. Donate today at https://meirpanim.org/stand-with-israel.