In a record-setting undertaking, tens of thousands of families all across Israel will enter Pesach with full tables and full hearts, thanks to a massive distribution by Oneg Shabbos V’Yom Tov, the organization led by R’ Ephraim Stern.

The Pesach distribution, unmatched in size and scope, consists of boxes handed out to needy households, each filled with meat, grape juice, matzohs, eggs, fruit, vegetables and pantry essentials. It was made possible through the support of the renowned Rechnitz Family, along with other ba’alei chesed around the globe.

The packages are valued at over $500 per family and include everything a family needs for Yom Tov, bringing the total cost of this pivotal operation to an astonishing $10 million.

This year, the need was bigger than ever. With the ongoing war and a tighter economy, many families who were getting by until now suddenly found themselves lacking. Rabbi Stern and his team responded to the growing need by expanding the program and adding thousands of new families to their rolls so that every home can welcome Pesach with dignity and simchas Yom Tov.

Lots of work and effort was poured in to set up the distribution in a way that makes receiving help easier for those in need. Instead of a few crowded distribution centers, 150+ pickup points were spread across the country, including dozens in Yerushalayim alone. In many neighborhoods, families were able to pick up their packages just a short walk from home. This cut down on the waiting, made the process more convenient and ensured that it was much more dignified for those on the receiving end.

With a shortage of kosher-for-Pesach meat this year and prices climbing, the organization took extra steps to secure supply, importing livestock and arranging for shechita in Israel to make sure families still received meat as part of their package. The costs ran into the millions but the results were well worth it for the Oneg Shabbos V’Yom Tov team, and the Rechnitz family and other major donors behind them.

This famed distribution has been part of life in Eretz Yisroel for 47 years. What started as a small chesed mission has over the decades grown into one of the largest relief operations anywhere, with ongoing weekly support for families throughout the year and expanded efforts before every Yom Tov.

But on Pesach, when costs rise and we are obligated to share Simchas Yom Tov with the less fortunate, the organization shines brightest, ensuring that every family and every child participates in a festive Zman Cheiruseinu.

כל דכפין ייתי וייכול!