Free Fresh Produce To Be Distributed At Jewish Community Center

BIRMINGHAM, AL — Families in need may pick up 20 pounds of fresh fruit and vegetables at the Levite Jewish Community Center Wednesday, May 20, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Approximately 450 fresh food boxes will be distributed on a first-come first-served basis, no questions asked.

Partnering with the LJCC in this effort are Collat Jewish Family Services and Forestwood Farms.

Volunteers are also needed to help unload and distribute the boxes, which will include potatoes, onions, carrots, apples, tomatoes and oranges. Volunteers must register here in advance.

Farmers to Families, a U.S. Department of Agriculture coronavirus relief program, is purchasing the food from local wholesalers for non-profits to distribute.

Throughout the COVID-19 crisis, the LJCC has distributed thousands of meals to families in need, in partnership with local agencies including the Community Food Bank of Central Alabama. CJFS, through a separate partnership with the food bank, has continued to deliver shelf-stable groceries to low- and moderate-income older adults.

“So many people in our area have lost their jobs, and they still need to feed their children,” said LJCC Executive Director Samantha Dubrinsky-Clayton. “We’re grateful to be able to provide these families with food that is fresh and nutritious.”

Lauren Schwartz, Executive Director of Collat Jewish Family Services, said lower-income older adults have also struggled to access food. “Because of the virus, many seniors no longer have transportation to the grocery store, or they’re afraid to go to the store” she said. “Many are isolated from loved ones, and these deliveries not only help keep them fed but they let them know that they have not been forgotten.” CJFS staff and volunteers will deliver 50 of the fresh food boxes to seniors at a subsidized senior housing facility.

The Levite Jewish Community Center is located at 3960 Montclair Rd.