Event:

There was a strong sense of inclusion woven into the fabric of Edgware United’s ShabbatUK celebrations, as the community put a grant from the Chief Rabbi’s Centre for Community Excellence towards making 50 special food parcels for those unable to make it to shul. Meanwhile, Rosh Pinah school children and their families were able to bridge school and shul life in the best possible way, with a Friday night dinner joint with Edgware United. In the main shul, Shabbat was welcomed with a communal candle lighting, followed by a spiritual Carlebach service and community oneg. A communal lunch and musical Havdalah were particular highlights of Shabbat day.

Evaluation of food parcel initiative from Vice Chair of Edgware United:

“Families were very pleased to received two complete meals for Shabbat, particularly because this made them feel part of the activities happening in shul. The families chosen were those in aveilut who could not participate – elderly people who could not walk, the poorly, the housebound, people who booked too late for health reasons as well as people who found being in crowd difficult.”

Participant Feedback:

“I liked that it was geared towards the children so that they would enjoy themselves. It was also really nice twinning with Edgware United”.

“I loved how excited my kids were about going to school for dinner. They were so happy to be there. I liked the atmosphere and the vibrancy. The hall looked fabulous.”

“The atmosphere was so warm and friendly, games for the families were well thought out and the short speeches by the rabbonim were well received. We had a wonderful evening.”