Annual Projects

Annual Yom Kippur Food Drive. We collect canned food and contributions for Second Harvest and the Jewish Family and Children Services. Last year we received a gold certificate from Second Harvest for our donation.

Holiday Projects. During the Christmas and Thanksgiving seasons, we distribute food at the Ecumenical Hunger Program in East Palo and deliver gifts (e.g., food baskets and kitchen supplies) to the Haven Family House, a transitional home for families in Menlo Park.

Matanot L'Evyonim. On Purim we raise money, generally for global organizations in need. Last year we collected almost $1000 for the American Jewish World Service earmarked for the disaster in Haiti. We also collaborate with our religious school to coordinate a Tikkun Olam activity during the carnival. Last year we compiled school supplies bags¾each with decorated notes¾that were delivered to Sunday Friends, an organization in San Jose that supports low income families in San Jose.

Women's Retreat. During the retreat, we coordinate a Tikkun Olam project during one of the sessions. Last year we compiled kitchen supplies gift bags for families at Haven House.

Annual Mitzvah Day. For the past few years the Jewish Community Center in Palo Alto has coordinated a mitzvah day with local Jewish organizations. Kol Emeth collaborates in planning this event and sponsors its own activity. This year Mitzvah Day will be on January 17, 2011. If you have questions or suggestions, contact our liaison Jeff Schwarz, jeff@kolemeth.org.

Annual Blood Drive. Once or twice a year we sponsor a blood drive through Stanford University at Kol Emeth to help the thousands of people who are in need of blood. If you want to help with this project, contact the Chair, Sonia Moss (650-369-6129).