Heritage Florida Jewish News - Central Florida's Independent Jewish Voice

This Passover was different than any other. For many, being unable to gather for the Seder with family, friends and community as they had planned, this was their first foray into preparing and leading a seder themselves.

Many people needed assistance. Some people are hungry. They may have lost their job, have increased medical bills or are going through a rough patch. Maybe they have food, but not the traditional Passover delicacies they grew up with. And some people just need help. They are quarantined at home and need assistance with groceries and other basic errands. 

"We are grateful to have been able to help both the hungry and those in need of assistance. Chabad of Altamonte Springs facilitated [many] families getting food and Seder kits for Passover and hundreds of people receiving Shmurah Matzah," said Rabbi Mendy Bronstein of Chabad of Altamonte Springs.

In past years, Chabad Centers throughout the Greater Orlando area have led large community Passover seders open to the public to ensure that all community members had the opportunity to celebrate Passover, including providing for the home-bound and institutionalized. This year, with social distancing measures in place, they have ramped up those efforts to ensure that everyone will have what they need to celebrate the holiday in their homes.

Seder Kits and Passover matzah were supplied to many people.

The local effort is part of a global Passover campaign that began in 1954, when the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, of righteous memory, launched the shmurah matzah initiative as part of an effort to create awareness and promote observance of the holiday. An estimated four million hand-baked shmurah matzahs were distributed by the Chabad-Lubavitch movement during the weeks leading up to Passover.

"We pray for the full and speedy recovery of everyone who has been affected by this terrible virus," said Rabbi Bronstein. "While each in our own homes, remember you are not alone and we are all in this together. Faith, tradition and community has never been more important than now. With the help of G‑d and community we will come out of this stronger than ever before."

The efforts to deliver catered meals, groceries, and any other assistance needed are continuing after Passover as well. If you know someone in need, please contact your local Chabad Center or email info@JewishAltamonte.com. To contribute to this effort, please visit http://www.JewishAltamonte.com/donate.