Chabad from Coral Springs summarizes four years of food distributions, describing how food boxes gave thousands of people a lifeline during the pandemic

Coral Springs, Florida – Chabad of Coral Springs recently wrapped off a four-year food distribution program that started in 2020 in response to the social and economic issues posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

At its height, the program drew up to 1,200 cars a week, often spanning over half a mile on University Drive, full of locals who were eager to pick up their basic goods.

Tens of thousands of local people received boxes of veggies, fruits, eggs, meat, rice, canned goods, and more at nearly 300 events at 3925 University Drive.

The handouts, which were first held every Wednesday, were progressively reduced as the pandemic’s effects subsided, eventually taking place every two weeks and then less frequently.
However, over 300 cars were fed at each occasion even as the initiative came to an end last week.

“We felt it was the right time to close this chapter, even though the need is still there,” said Rabbi Avraham Friedman, executive director of Chabad of Coral Springs, a Jewish education and community organization. “This was a massive undertaking.”

A combination of private and public support was needed for the project.

The program’s foundation was initially government-provided food, but as time went on, local supermarkets and private benefactors took over to keep the initiative going.

The cost of each event ranges from $2,500 to $3,000, which includes logistical requirements, city police traffic control, and food costs.

According to Friedman, volunteers were the program’s core.

70 to 80 volunteers from a variety of backgrounds, including homeowners, local business owners, and students, were needed for each delivery. They frequently toiled in intense heat and rain.

Friedman remarked, “There was an amazing sense of camaraderie and goodwill.”

Anthony Fairweather, a recording artist manager, and Coral Springs resident, was one of the committed volunteers.

Fairweather joined the cause after being impressed by the quality of the food his neighbor was receiving. For four years, he helped with setup and distribution while delivering food from farms in Homestead.

“I wanted to do my part, and there was a clear need,” Fairweather said. “It was tremendously satisfying to see the gratitude from those we served.”

To aid those in need, the organization also gave food boxes to the neighborhood fire and police stations in addition to the parking lot.

Lines of cars frequently extended to Sample Road during deliveries, making Chabad of Coral Springs the largest public service organization in the city at its peak.

Friedman stressed that even though the official food drives are over, his organization is always dedicated to helping those in need.

According to him, residents can still ask for assistance on an individual basis.

“It’s really fulfilling to know we made a difference for so many people during such a trying time,” Friedman remarked in reflection of the program.

At 3925 University Drive, you may find Chabad of Coral Springs.