The power of collective action was on full display during the first-annual Jewish Justice Giving Day. MAZON is proud to lead this charge that, together with our Jewish social justice partners, raised over $200,000 from more than 900 total gifts. This remarkable achievement—uniting more than 35 Jewish social justice organizations—demonstrates what becomes possible when we rally around our shared values.
This remarkable day affirmed that even during challenging times, our Jewish commitment to justice remains unwavering. The outpouring of support reflects our community’s dedication to the principles of tzedek (justice) and tzedakah (giving) that have guided the Jewish people for generations.
Jewish Justice Giving Day was ultimately a team effort, with the planning committee — including American Jewish World Service, Avodah, Jewtina y Co, Kirva, MAZON, the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism, and the Jewish Social Justice Roundtable — and our partners proudly coming together to lift up each others’ missions.
Rooted in Tradition, Responding to Urgent Needs
Jewish Justice Giving Day was intentionally timed the week leading up to Shabbat Shekalim, when we remember our ancestors’ practice of contributing half a shekel to address collective community needs. As Jews, we are called not only to care for those in need but to actively challenge systems that perpetuate suffering. Every contribution embodies this sacred obligation.
At its core, Jewish Justice Giving Day is about laying the foundation for lasting change. Fighting for what we know is right. Using our voices to address critical issues facing our society. This day highlighted the American Jewish community’s commitment to addressing the full spectrum of justice issues demanding our attention—supporting those facing hunger and poverty, protecting reproductive rights, preserving democracy, and so much more.
A Critical Moment for Social Justice Work
Your support comes at a crucial moment as we face unprecedented threats to vital food assistance programs that support millions of Americans. Recent policy shifts and proposed cuts to SNAP threaten to deepen hunger across the country. Food insecurity cannot be solved by individuals or local communities alone—we depend on our policymakers at every level of government to uphold, maintain, and strengthen the anti-hunger safety net.
Through the generosity of MAZON’s donors, this week, we strengthened our ability to advocate for those whose voices often go unheard. When policies undermine our core values of dignity and equality for those struggling with hunger, our response is to advocate against these threats as well as strengthen our partner organizations.
Justice is ensuring everyone has access to basic needs, including food. MAZON will not stop fighting against threats to food assistance.
Building a Movement for the Future
As we reflect on this inaugural event, we look forward to it becoming a cherished annual tradition in Jewish philanthropy. Year after year, we hope Jewish communities will join the movement to build the political and social will needed for lasting change.
Through consistency and persistence, we can ensure that hunger—and all issues our community cares deeply about—remain at the forefront of our national conversation. Together, we have demonstrated that the Jewish commitment to justice is unwavering and capable of creating powerful change.
Thank you for standing with us on Jewish Justice Giving Day and every day in pursuit of a just world free from hunger.
Learn more about Jewish Justice Giving Day here.