With the price of food rising with the recession, local Manchester teens organized a community food drive in conjunction with L’Chaim-Chabad Food Bank. The teens set up drop-off centres at local shops and even went door to door in search of non-perishable food, clothing or other necessary contributions.
The collected food and other items were organized and packaged by the teens, and immediately distributed to needy families throughout Manchester. “Mothers used to say ‘finish your plate because there are children in Africa who are starving.’” says CTeen advisor, Rabbi Moshe Cohen. “But sadly, in today’s world, hunger has become prevalent in our own backyards.”
CTeen is branch of the fastest growing Jewish teens club in the worldwide, and is action-oriented, aimed at empowering teens to realize their true potential while making a difference to the community. “By helping others, we see an almost immediate boost in confidence, drive and determination from our teens,” says Cohen. “By giving to others, they are benefiting in equal measure.”
“Seeing the teens so eager to volunteer their time to stand and tell shoppers how even one donated item could mean breakfast for a child down the block was truly humbling,” says Alan G., a proud parent. Ben Bursk, a Cteen member said all he could think of to describe the initiative was, “appreciation.” “I’m not going to take for granted opening a fridge full of food ever again.”
“If you or anyone you know would like to receive a food package, you can contact the Food Bank anonymously,” said Rabbi Yisroel Cohen, founder and director of the Food Bank. “We serve hundreds of families each day, and sadly the need for our services just keeps on growing.”
CTeen is open to all local Jewish teens regardless of affiliation. Visit www.lchaim.org.uk/teens for more information.