This past week, Fellowship staff joined our partners at Leket Israel for fruit and vegetable distribution to our beneficiaries. This was made possible by grants from The Fellowship and IFCJ Canada. This grant covered the leasing cost for two years of the “Leket Express” truck, which acts as a mobile greengrocer and travels to Israeli neighborhoods in need.
The Leket Express traveled to Kiryat Shmona and Netanya. In addition to fruits and vegetables, the truck also offered soup. Seniors and several vulnerable Jews lined up as it arrived. For many, this goes beyond just food assistance. They no longer must choose between essential medication or their next meal. Some visit the distribution points to bring food back to their neighbors who cannot leave their homes.
“I come here every week,” one beneficiary shared. “This is the best place. The produce is the freshest and of the best quality. With food prices continuing to rise, even basic items have become unaffordable for those living on fixed incomes. Everything is expensive … The weekly distribution of fruits and vegetables provides essential relief — and peace of mind. This helps us very, very much. Any assistance helps, especially now. We still have to pay for medication. Without this food, it would be impossible to manage.”
It’s not just relief and support that these visits provide to Israel’s neediest communities; it’s also dignity and love. Another beneficiary visiting the site in Kiryat Shmona says there is care, respect, and warmth as she receives fresh produce.
“You feel it immediately. This truly helps. There is love and soul here,” she said.
“If anyone is poor among your fellow Israelites in any of the towns of the land the Lord your God is giving you, do not be hardhearted or tightfisted toward them” (Deuteronomy 15:7).
