For 17 years, members of Congregation Beth Shalom in Modesto have embraced the holiday spirit by preparing and delivering Christmas meals to first responders, showing gratitude for their service to the community.
The initiative, led by congregation member Joyce Gandelman, involves days of preparation and the collective effort of the synagogue’s members. This year, nearly 300 meals were delivered to locations including juvenile hall and the Modesto Police Department.
“As Jews, we don’t really have much planned on Christmas Day, so this is kind of a nice opportunity,” said Keith Highet, who has been delivering meals for over a decade with help from his sons, Oliver and Hunter. “It’s a mitzvah, a good deed.”
The outreach doesn’t stop at first responders. This year, the synagogue also delivered meals to two dozen elderly community members. The consistent appreciation from the recipients keeps the tradition alive.
“They’re very appreciative, and every year, I think, ‘Is this our last year?’ But then they keep saying how much they appreciate it, so we do it for another year,” Gandelman shared.
The gesture not only strengthens community bonds but exemplifies the spirit of giving during the holiday season.
This article is a summary of the press release, "Modesto synagogue shows thanks to first responders with Christmas meals," by Nina Burns, CBS Sacramento.
