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Eighth Graders Fill Seder Sacks for Seniors in Need

Some old stories don't grow "old"—they become tradition. For nineteen years Brandeis eighth graders have participated in a service project at Jewish Family and Children's Services in their holiday outreach program. Our students prepared over 900 "seder sacks," to be delivered to homebound Jews in time for Passover. Students filled sacks with matzah ball soup mix, matzah, grape juice, gefilte fish, macaroons, and tea. “Following immediately the excitement and anxiety of the high school admissions process, this activity focuses the eighth graders on the needs of others, and doing a kind and selfless service is a most welcome pivot for our eighth graders,” says eighth grade advisor Neal Biskar.

“Every year I ask the eighth graders if they enjoyed it, and the students always respond with overwhelming enthusiasm. We’ve engaged in this activity for 19 years because—for one thing—it gives the eighth graders the opportunity to get out and do something for the community." MORE PHOTOS
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