During this time of uncertainty and social distancing, many are looking for ways to contribute and make a difference. The B’nai Israel Social Action and Refugee Committees have organized a DONATION DRIVE so that we, as a B’nai Israel community, can do our part to assist others in this time of need. The three recipients include:

• B'nai's Sponsored Refugee Family (Contact: Mica Carmio or Anne Seymour)

For over a year, B’nai Israel has worked with LSS to sponsor a refugee family from Afghanistan. Our congregation supports them in many ways, including furniture and clothing. We have spoken with the family and while they are currently receiving food stamp assistance, they are appreciative of those who may be able to contribute the following household essentials:

Items to Donate - shampoo, soap, toothpaste, kitchen cleaning supplies, laundry detergent, paper towels, toilet paper, all purpose cleaning supplies. Additionally, the family is in need of a small desk for work.

How to Donate Money - If you are inclined to provide financial support, the family lives across the street from a Wal-Mart and welcomes gift cards. Here is the link for physical gift cards and here is the link for e-gift cards.

• Manna Food Center of Montgomery County (Contact: Dana Lande)

Manna works to end hunger in Montgomery County through food distribution, education and advocacy.  Questions? Contact Dana Lande at dlande@daynadesigns.com.

Items to Donate - pasta, rice, grains, canned fruits and vegetables, infant formula and baby food, canned or dry beans and nut butters, oils, spices and other shelf-stable food items.

How to Donate Money - Make a large impact - Manna is able to purchase food at wholesale prices, so monetary donations are also being accepted to their COVID-19 fund:  https://www.mannafood.org/covidresponse/

• National Diaper Bank (Contact: Alexis Anolik)

The National Diaper Bank is a nonprofit organization with a nationwide network of over 200 diaper banks that provide basic essentials to those in need.

Items to Donate - Any unused diapers in open or unopened packages, pull-ups, wipes, infant formula, toiletries, and feminine hygiene products. 

How to Donate Money - Make a large impact.  The Diaper Bank is able to purchase items at wholesales costs,  are accepted on their website.

Please note that all donations will be contactless drop offs. Our volunteers will then sort and distribute to our recipients described below. We do not encourage our community to go out to extra stores to purchase items. Please either add donation items to your already-scheduled supply trips/deliveries, or consider donating money from the safety of your home. If dropping off, please separate donations by organization/recipient.