Once again, our shul has responded with enthusiasm to a call for charity, this time a campaign called “Cans For CAST.” We asked all those joining us for Yom Kippur services to bring a can or other nonperishable item, and to deposit the food in the big red barrel stationed at the ramp entry door. And people did, filling the barrel and making it a back-breaker for CAST volunteers to drag it away.

The “Cans For Cast” campaign is based on a worldwide movement to feed the hungry as part of the annual observance of Yom Kippur, often referred to as the “Fast of Isaiah,” the Biblical prophet who said, “And if you spend yourself in behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness, and your night will become like the noonday.”

Feeling the effects of hunger on a fast day, worshippers will be reminded of those who struggle to nourish their families.

The barrel will remain in place beyond Yom Kippur and throughout the High Holidays, ending on Oct. 7 with the Shemini Atzeret/Simchat Torah/Yizkor services, from 9:30-11:30 a.m. in the sanctuary.

In addition to overseeing the shul-inspired “Cans For Cast” campaign, the Tikkun Olam Group continues to maintain beds of vegetables and herbs at Common Ground and donate the harvest to CAST. The shul thanks Veronica Kaliski, Susan Rosenstreich, Madelyn Rothman, and Cookie Slade for their volunteer efforts on behalf of our shul for the benefit of CAST clients.

CAST is currently accepting donations of gently-used fall and winter clothing, and household items. At this time, please no books, CDs, DVDs, board games or puzzles. Hours are M, W, F:  9-12 and 1-4.