In addition to the feasting and festivity, masquerade and Megilla inherent to the joyous celebration of the holiday of Purim, Jews are instructed to recognize the needs of others.  Following that advisement established in the writings of the Megillah, a biblical story generally dated to the third or fourth century BCE, staff members of the Consulate of Israel in New York observed the tradition ofMishloach Manot as they joined City Meals on Wheels to deliver hot  meals to elderly, homebound New Yorkers.

Consulate staff initiated the celebration of the Purim Holiday March 14,^th, “at several Manhattan senior centers and residences.  Their visit provided both a hot meal and a warm visit for each recipient.  “We try to give back to the community at every holiday,” said a Consulate spokesperson.

Carrying joy: Consulate staff members wheel "City Meals on Wheels" along the streets of New York bringing nourishment of the body and soul to the homebound residents. Photo: Shahar Azran.

Members of the Consular staff and City Meals on Wheels director prepare for the Purim food delivery. Photo: Shahar Azran.