It is a mitzvah to help those in need. Valley Temple’s Social Action committee has selected several projects which provide maximal benefits for others and a limited time commitment from members.  There are activities to appeal to members of all ages and areas of interest and occur at different times throughout the year.  No special skills are required — just your desire to help others.  Be prepared to feel good about yourself as you extend a helping hand to your neighbor.

QUEEN CITY KITCHEN

An  ongoing project, our members bake brownies, cook and serve a hot meal approximately four times a year to those less fortunate.  The soup kitchen is housed in Walnut Hills, and feeds hundreds of folks.  This activity is great for kids and  adults, and is supported by the Berkman Family Social Action Fund.

VALLEY INTERFAITH FOOD AND CLOTHING CENTER/HIGH HOLYDAY MITZVAH BAG PROJECT

Empty grocery bags are distributed at Rosh Hashanah and members are asked to return the bags filled with food, toiletries and baby products by Yom Kippur — a project in which everyone can participate!    The underlying idea is that a household should donate the food that would be eaten in one day, since Yom Kippur suggests that Jews fast as part of the observance.  This project has been VIFCC’s largest donation of the year. Volunteers also help load vehicles at the Temple and unload at VIFCC the day after Yom Kippur.