UPDATE: From the Interfaith Food Pantry of South Orange
After exceedingly careful thought and numerous discussions with volunteer leadership, the IFPO temporarily ceased pantry operations on March 18. Our host Church had been, and currently remains, closed. While it pains us greatly to not be able to directly continue to serve our neighbors at this time, we made this decision out of an abundance of caution and concern for the health and well-being of our clients and volunteers, as well as concern for the local community.
The IFPO transferred all the contents of our pantry rooms (as well as our supply of maxipads) to our partner MEND last week, for distribution to Essex County pantries within the MEND network that are still able to be open. MEND is working closely with other emergency food pantries as well as local schools to make sure that emergency feeding programs continue to have supplies during this crisis. We are also currently working with the City of Orange to find ways to provide food to members of the community as we become aware of opportunities to procure food from pantry sources.
To access a list of opportunities to help support the community most impacted by the IFPSO closing, follow this link.
TSTI Cares
While we practice social distancing during this challenging moment, we also need social solidarity more than ever. One thing that can help lift us out of this difficult time is to turn our attention towards strengthening our community connections and serving others. Do you have some time each week to make a few phone calls to check-in with members of our TSTI community who might be struggling during this time? If so, fill out this form to volunteer!
College Student Check In
Thursday, March 27, 7:00pm
It would be great to get to “see” TSTI’s college students. Come together to check in about how you are doing during our new “normal.” Find ways to reconnect with each other. And for those interested, learn about opportunities for you to help TSTI create different activities for young children through young adults. Try to wear a college shirt or sweatshirt! Link to: https://zoom.us/j/216915227
Virtual Coffee
9:30 AM
Monday, Wednesday, Friday
Get ready to take on the day with your TSTI community and clergy. Make yourself a cup of coffee or tea, log on to Zoom and let’s chat, share tips, commiserate, and be together. Go to: https://zoom.us/j/909365128
TSTI Sing Along
Tuesdays, Thursdays 4:00pm
Let’s spend the afternoon expressing ourselves through songs and music with Song leader Shawn Fogel. Geared toward 3rd-6th graders, but open to all ages. Go to: https://zoom.us/j/608428809
TSTI Lilah Tov
Monday-Thursday at 6:00 PM
Hey kids and parents! Please join us as we wind down from the day with a story and a bedtime song.Go to: https://zoom.us/j/705543556
TSTI Boker Tov Music
Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays 9:00am
Enjoy a morning of music and movement with our Song Leader Shawn Fogel. Sing along with each other to start our day with joy. Geared toward preschool, but open to all ages. Fridays will feature special Shabbat songs and blessings. Go to: https://zoom.us/j/588455664