MISSION STATEMENT
To reach out to the community and assist those in need as we seek to fulfill the call to social action expressed by the prophet Isaiah in Chapter 58:
“Share your bread with the hungry and…clothe the naked…”
MITZVAH DAY
29th Annual Mitzvah Day
May 3 2026!
Isaiah 58 History
The Isaiah 58 Social Action Committee at Temple Beth David –
A History
What is Isaiah 58?
Isaiah 58 is Temple Beth David’s Social Action Committee. Its name was chosen by Rabbi Leonard Troupp z”l, who issued an appeal to the congregation in the fall of 1996 during a High Holiday sermon. His thought was that a congregation of this size should give back to the community in an organized, substantial and consistent way. The group of people who responded a few days later agreed with him and were more than willing to devote their time and efforts to ensure that it actually happened.
Over the years, the Isaiah 58 Committee has had a significant impact on the lives of those in need. We started many projects and, although their leadership may have changed over the years, the projects have continued. It seems that they have a life of their own. And, as new people have joined us, their ideas have also become projects.
Current ongoing projects include:
The Sharon Glasser PB&J Project is named after Sharon, who started it and made it the popular and successful project it remains today. The committee meets throughout the year and makes 200 sandwiches each time. The sandwiches are distributed throughout Long Island and New York to help families in need.
Yom Kippur, Thanksgiving and Passover Food Collection/Distribution Projects help to provide holiday food for families who are unable to afford it. We ask the congregation and the Religious School to bring in food and, then, if it is not sufficient, we purchase whatever is necessary to ensure that families can celebrate properly.
Hat Looming Project meets monthly to create hand-made hats and scarves which are donated to the Northwell Dolan Family Health Center.
Food Pantry Project is where most of our funds go. We purchase and deliver food each month to various food pantries in the area. The food you bring to the temple helps families in need all over Long Island.
Mitzvah Day is Isaiah 58 Social Action Committee’s largest and best-known project. Now in its 29th year, this project involves temple members and participants of all ages doing varied acts of service together. Throughout the year, and especially on Mitzvah Day, we join our efforts and learn the joy that comes from giving and making a difference in someone else’s life.
