JCS Matzah Mitzvah 2026 - This Passover, More Than 500 Seniors Are Counting On Us

Organized by Jewish Community Services of South Florida (JCS), this beloved initiative transforms the weeks before Passover into a hands-on experience of kindness. Volunteers don’t just pack food; they deliver dignity. They don’t simply assemble baskets; they carry stories, heritage, and human connection straight to the doorsteps of those who need it most. 

And this year, spots are filling quickly.

A Morning That Matters

The day begins promptly at 9:00 a.m. at two community locations:

• North - Scheck Hillel Community School

• South - Bet Shira Congregation

From the moment volunteers arrive, the atmosphere is charged with purpose. Tables fill with Passover essentials — matzah, shelf-stable holiday foods, and thoughtfully selected personal hygiene items. Every box is assembled with care, knowing that for many recipients, this delivery is more than practical support — it is a lifeline to the community.

Clients expect their deliveries between 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m., making punctuality essential. Delivery assignments are first come, first served. Arriving late may mean missing the opportunity to deliver.

This is not a drop-in event. It is a coordinated mission.

More Than a Basket

Passover is a holiday rooted in memory, resilience, and freedom. For Holocaust Survivors in our community, those themes are deeply personal. A holiday basket is not simply a convenience; it is a reaffirmation that their lives and stories matter.

Many recipients are over 80 or 90 years old. Some live alone. Others are physically unable to shop or prepare for the holiday without assistance. Through JCS Matzah Mitzvah, volunteers bridge the gap between isolation and inclusion. Each knock on the door carries warmth. Each smile exchanged reinforces that no one is forgotten. Participation requires commitment — and that’s part of what makes it meaningful.

Volunteers will dedicate up to four hours to both packing and delivering Passover food and personal hygiene baskets. Packing only is not allowed; every participant completes the full experience. Delivery drivers should be prepared to travel 25+ miles if needed. Assignments depend on demand and geography, and flexibility ensures that every senior receives their package on time.

All volunteers over age 18 must be registered in advance. Children under 18 no longer need to register, but must be accompanied by an adult for the entirety of the event. Registration closes on March 1st, 2026. There will be no walk-ins or guest changes after that date. All guests must present their registration ticket and photo ID at the door. Without these items, entry will be denied.

These guidelines aren’t barriers — they’re safeguards that allow the operation to run smoothly and respectfully for the vulnerable clients who depend on it.

The Vibe: Community, Caring, Connection

Step into the packing room and you’ll feel it immediately. Multi-generational volunteers working side by side. Parents teaching children about giving back. Teens lifting boxes. Adults coordinating routes. Friends laughing as they tape packages shut.

Then comes the delivery — often the most moving part of the morning.

Volunteers are welcomed into living rooms adorned with family photos and memories of decades past. Conversations unfold about childhood Seders, immigration journeys, grandchildren, and hope. Sometimes the exchange lasts just a few minutes. Sometimes it lingers.

But it always matters. This is what a community looks like in action. Matzah Mitzvah is a reflection of this mission — practical support delivered with compassion.

Why Your Participation Matters

The need is real. More than 500 seniors and Holocaust Survivors are expecting deliveries this year. Many rely on fixed incomes. Some have limited family nearby. All deserve to celebrate Passover with dignity.

By showing up, you become part of something larger than yourself:

• You preserve memory.

• You strengthen community bonds.

• You honor resilience.

• You ensure that no elder feels forgotten.

And in return, volunteers often say they receive far more than they give.

Important Details at a Glance

Matzah Mitzvah 2026

Sunday, March 8th, 2026

9:00 a.m. (arrive on time)

• Registration closes: March 1st, 2026

• No walk-ins permitted.

• Photo ID and confirmation ticket required for entry.

• Ages 18+ must register.

• Children must be accompanied by an adult.

• Packing and delivery required.

All deliveries are first come, first served. Arriving promptly ensures you will receive a delivery assignment.

Ways to Get Involved Beyond Volunteering

Not everyone can attend in person — but everyone can help.

Financial contributions directly support the purchase of food, hygiene items, and logistical coordination required to reach hundreds of households in just one morning. There are moments in the year that define who we are as a community. JCS Matzah Mitzvah is one of them. It is not glamorous. It is not complicated. It is simply neighbors helping neighbors — honoring elders who helped build the very community we cherish today.

To donate to the 2026 JCS Matzah Mitzvah Campaign, click here: https://jcsfl.org/matzah-mitzvah-donate/

To sponsor JCS Matzah Mitzvah 2026, please click here: https://jcsfl.org/matzah-mitzvah-sponsor/ 

Eligibility

On March 8th, 2026, tables will fill with matzah. Cars will fill with boxes. Doorbells will ring. And in homes across Miami-Dade County, seniors and Holocaust Survivors will feel the warmth of being remembered.

Spots are filling quickly. Registration closes March 1st, 2026. Show up. Pack with purpose. Deliver with heart. Because this Passover, more than 500 seniors are counting on us.

A Century of Service

Since 1920, Jewish Community Services of South Florida has remained true to its original mission of providing exemplary social services through compassionate and comprehensive programs that help people stay healthy and productive. By partnering with our funding agencies, sister organizations and local leaders, JCS continuously strengthens and solidifies its outreach and its impact. In this way, JCS continues to be a beacon of help, healing and hope as it addresses current needs with these three divisions:

Children & Youth Services

JCS specializes in compassionate services that address the unique needs of children, adolescents and young adults. From mental health counseling and addiction treatment to violence prevention and mentoring initiatives, JCS has programs to assist youth in any situation or circumstance. In keeping with our efforts to deliver help in neighborhood settings, many programs are offered at JCS offices, area schools, synagogues and community centers.

Adult & Family Services

JCS’ network of services assists adults and families of all incomes in ways that strengthen individuals, marriages, relationships and family units, contributing to a healthier community. Those searching for mental health counseling, job assistance, support for survivors of domestic abuse and a variety of other services can count on JCS’ professional staff for effective treatment and guidance. JCS is here to help in times of stress, strife and adversity with a range of quality programs.

Senior Support Services

Those over 60 are urged to take advantage of JCS’ in-depth experience and expertise. Our number one priority is keeping seniors active, healthy and living in their own homes — for as long as it is safe and appropriate. From locations throughout Miami-Dade County, JCS helps clients maintain their dignity and independence with diverse initiatives that include home care, personal emergency response systems, home-delivered meals, care management, adult day care and transportation services.

For questions, please contact Jake Rider, JCS Community Engagement Specialist, at: jrider@jcsfl.org.