September 11, 2020 | Food & Recipes

By Jennifer Zyman, for the AJC

In her article, Joyful ways to celebrate Rosh Hashana despite pandemic, Jennifer describes some of the ways families can give back.

"Perhaps, you are the kind of family who doesn’t let a holiday pass without giving back. Many Atlanta Jewish organizations, including Jewish Family & Career Services of Atlanta, are offering services and ideas for celebrating the holiday despite the pandemic. JF&CS Atlanta is coordinating with area rabbis to help older housebound adults participate in Rosh Hashanah rituals, such as the blowing of the shofar, or ram’s horn. The shofar is traditionally blown during synagogue services, but this year, rabbis will be visiting people at their homes and blowing the shofar outdoors.

"If you’d like to do something for someone who may need a little more than just a piece of honey cake this New Year, volunteer for JF&CS Atlanta’s One Good Deed friendly visitor program, which calls 150-plus seniors every week. Children can send Rosh Hashana greeting cards to older adults who may feel isolated due to the pandemic, or you can donate to the JF&CS Atlanta Kosher food pantry to ensure someone doesn’t go hungry this holiday season.

"The heart of this holiday is togetherness. With people yearning for connection, there are still ways to do that safely. And there are still things to celebrate."