As the High Holidays approach many seek meaningful ways to give back and contribute to our community. We’ve gathered a list of ways you and your family can uphold the values of tzedakah and tikkun olam during this sacred time, whether it’s through donation, volunteering or simply showing up. Did we miss any? Let us know at [email protected].
San Francisco
Ongoing
Sha’ar Zahav Clothing Drive — Donate blankets, jackets, socks and other new and lightly used clothing to be distributed to unhoused San Franciscans by the Gubbio Project. At Sha’ar Zahav, 290 Dolores St., S.F. Weekdays 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
The Giving Kitchen — Chabad of SF is seeking volunteers to cook meals for those in need at their kosher community kitchen. At Chabad of SF, 496 Natoma St., S.F. Times vary. Registration required.
Sunday, Sept. 22
Postcard Party — Join Sha’ar Zahav to write postcards connecting voters with the information needed to vote by mail and to vote early in person. In partnership with the Center for Common Ground, an organization led by people of color fighting voter suppression and empowering underserved communities. Livestream option. At Sha’ar Zahav, 290 Dolores St., S.F. 2:30-4:30 p.m.
Thursday, Sept. 26
Holiday Gift Bag Packaging — Chabad of Cole Valley needs volunteers to package and distribute holiday gift bags for residents of senior homes throughout San Francisco. At Chabad of Cole Valley, 1300 Shrader St., S.F. 7-8:30 p.m. Or sponsor a bag by donating online at cjssf.org/volunteer
East Bay
Ongoing
Souper Saucers Cook Day — Cook and help distribute soup for people in need on Wednesday nights. Sponsored by Repair the World, a Jewish service organization that connects young adults to volunteer opportunities with local nonprofits. At Urban Adamah, 1151 Sixth St., Berkeley. 5-8 p.m. Registration required.
South Bay/Peninsula
Ongoing
Congregation Etz Chayim Blanket Drive — Drop off new or gently used (and washed) blankets in the Etz Chayim lobby for donation to Move Mountain View, an organization that will distribute them to folks living in cars and RVs. Through Sept. 30. At Congregation Etz Chayim, 4161 Alma St., Palo Alto.
Friday, Sept. 20
Fri-J Toast, Honey and Community Service — Raise a glass of homemade apple kombucha for the new Jewish year, taste or buy honey from a local hive and help put together kits for local housing-insecure neighbors. Presented by Repair The World. At Los Gatos location provided with registration. 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 21
Los Altos Compassion Week — Join volunteers from the Oshman Family JCC for 10 days of service activities with over 150 diverse projects to choose from to support local organizations that focus on meeting the basic needs of our neighbors year-round. Through Sept. 29.
Sunday, Sept. 22
Maternity and Baby Clothing Swap — Exchange new or gently used maternity and baby clothing with other parents. Extra clothes will be donated. With light refreshments, snacks, raffle prizes and socializing. Presented by Blossom Birth and Family and Fit4Mom SV. At Oshman Family JCC, 3921 Fabian Way, Palo Alto. 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 27
JFCS Holiday Food Drive — JFCS is collecting shelf stable pantry items like canned tuna, cereal, broth, granola bars, peanut butter, jam and boxes of macaroni and cheese plus household and personal care items like cleaning supplies, toilet paper, paper towels, shampoo, toothbrushes, toothpaste and body soap. Through Oct. 28. Drop off items at collection barrel locations: JFCS Palo Alto, 200 Channing Ave., Palo Alto; Congregation Beth Am, 26790 Arastradero Road, Los Altos Hills; Congregation Etz Chayim, 4161 Alma St., Palo Alto; Congregation Kol Emeth, 4175 Manuela Ave., Palo Alto; Gideon Hausner Jewish Day School, 450 San Antonio Road, Palo Alto; Kehillah Jewish High School, 3900 Fabian Way, Palo Alto; Oshman Family JCC, 3921 Fabian Way, Palo Alto. Or donate online.