Community Corner
Shir Ami’s Food Bank Collects & Distributes 20K Pounds of Groceries
In Annual High Holy Days Food Drive
Shir Ami, the heart of Reform Judaism in Bucks County, achieved an inspiring milestone in its fight against food insecurity during this year’s High Holy Day Food Drive. Collecting a record-breaking 20,000 pounds of food, this marks the largest total in the event’s history. Throughout October, over 200 congregants and volunteers of all ages worked together to sort, label, weigh, and distribute donations to local agencies that provide vital support to families in need.
“This record-breaking collection is a testament to the strength of our community,” said Marc Luber, Vice President at Shir Ami. “To see so many people come together—from our congregants to our local schools and new supporters like Mitch Cohen—truly embodies Shir Ami’s spirit of compassion and action. We’re not only helping to feed families; we’re building a network of care and support that makes Bucks County stronger.”
Shir Ami partnered with seven local food banks and outreach organizations to distribute donations, including Bristol Borough Community Action Group, Emergency Relief Association (ERA), Morrisville Presbyterian Church Food Pantry, Penndel Food Pantry, Jesus Focus Ministries, Warminster Food Bank, and InterFaith Food Alliance (IFA). These groups received much-needed food supplies to support families experiencing food insecurity as the winter months approach.
Community support played a crucial role in this year’s success. Newtown Middle School contributed nearly 5,000 pounds of food through its annual CANping for Hunger event, and Churchville Elementary School held a food drive to support Shir Ami’s mission. A significant contribution came from Mitch Cohen, a new Shir Ami congregant, who donated over 2,000 pounds, helping the drive reach its record total.
With these efforts, Shir Ami’s Food Bank anticipates distributing over 32,000 pounds of food this year, offering essential sustenance to families across the region.
Shir Ami’s Food Bank welcomes continued community support. Those interested in volunteering or making donations can visit shirami.org for more information. Every contribution—whether food, funds, or time—strengthens the fight against hunger and builds a stronger, more connected community.
About Shir Ami
Reform synagogue Shir Ami, located in Newtown, PA, traces its history to 1976 when several Jewish families in Richboro gathered to discuss the formation of a new congregation. Shir Ami endeavors to continue Reform traditions in Bucks County while creating new ones. It strives to be:
- Dedicated to sustaining and growing a vibrant and diverse Jewish community.
- Devoted to educating all who seek a greater understanding of Jewish tradition, values, and practices.
- Committed to connecting with each other, cultivating spiritual growth, creating a just and compassionate society, and supporting Israel and the Jewish family worldwide.
To learn more, visit www.shirami.org. Follow Shir Ami on Facebook at @shiramibuckscounty or on Instagram at @shir_ami_pa.
