The Care and Share Committee of Congregation Adath Israel of Newtown is marking the start of the new Fall season with a food drive to support food banks in Newtown and Monroe.

Local residents are encouraged to support this food drive. Members of Adath Israel can drop off filled bags in the lobby of the synagogue up to October 9.

In addition, on Sunday, October 9, from 10 am to noon, members of the committee will be collecting food in the parking lot of the synagogue, 115 Huntingtown Road. Individuals can drive up, and Care and Share Committee members will collect all donations and deliver them to the Newtown and Monroe food pantries.

A wide array of items will be collected. Food banks need personal hygiene articles such as soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, shampoo and conditioner, and deodorant; coffee, tea, school snacks, detergent, canned goods, juices, jarred pasta sauce, pasta, salad dressing, beef and chicken ramen, as well as all pet foods.

Food drives play an essential part in Adath Israel’s commitment to promote kindness to help local communities and the world we live in. In Judaism, this is known as Tikkun Olam. Efforts such as these are an important source for pantries to enable them to help many neighbors who are in need, especially as we continue to feel the effects of COVID-19.

Over the last several years, Adath Israel has donated a large quantity of food to the area’s food pantries and the recipients have been extremely grateful.

For additional information about Congregation Adath Israel, visit congadathisrael.org or contact the synagogue at 203-426-5188.