Last Sunday was an extraordinary day for the United Synagogue as communities across the country came together to mark the 20th Anniversary of Mitzvah Day. From early morning until well into the afternoon, volunteers could be found making soup, packing gifts, cleaning waterways, litter-picking and taking part in countless acts of kindness. It was a powerful display of what Judaism looks like at its very best, practical care, community spirit and a readiness to help those in need.
A highlight of the day was at the Asylum Seekers Drop-In Centre, which welcomed around thirty families. The Chief Rabbi, Sir Ephraim Mirvis KBE, David Pinto-Duschinsky, MP for Hendon and Mitzvah Day founder Laura Marks joined us for this special occasion. They were warmly welcomed by Jo Grose, Chief Executive United Synagogue and Sharon Daniels Head of Chesed and Volunteering and Hannah Gerson who leads the project.
Guest families were delighted to meet the Chief Rabbi, and volunteers were proud to showcase the work that goes into supporting those seeking safety in the UK. As David Pinto-Duschinsky MP remarked, “The United Synagogue truly embodies the value of chesed, loving kindness,” reflecting the warmth and dedication he witnessed.”
Jo Grose, gamely took on a young guest at table tennis, only to be soundly beaten, much to his delight!
Across our communities, food support was a major theme. St Albans packed food parcels for recipients of the Chesed Food Bank, while Bushey’s Big Soup Serve made over 120 portions of soup for families in need. Meanwhile, the US Toy Drive was in full swing, with Tribe youth, local communities and United Synagogue Head Office staff, wrapping and preparing gifts for children across London and Israel.
Sustainability also took centre stage this year. Volunteers joined Eco Judaism for a river clean-up, helping to protect and restore the local environment. At Cockfosters and North Southgate Synagogue, the Cheder group found a creative way to reuse ritual items by turning recycled Arba Minim into new Havdalah sets, giving them a second life within the community.
The atmosphere across the United Synagogue communities was one of energy and togetherness.
In addition to hands-on projects, Mitzvah Day also saw the launch of a new guide encouraging our synagogues to host NHS blood donation sessions. This initiative aims to help communities across the US support vital national services and contribute to saving lives.
As Mitzvah Day continues into the week, our Lack Friday campaign is now underway, collecting hygiene products for those who lack the bare essentials, this parallels Black Friday and is an opportunity to take advantage of discounted prices to help those who cannot afford basic essentials.
While it is impossible to count every donation that has been made, we do know that more than three hundred volunteers participated in United Synagogue, Mitzvah Day activities, and countless others donated toys, toiletries and funds. Their efforts ensured that Mitzvah Day 2025 was not only a success, but a meaningful reminder of the power we hold when we come together for the good of others.
26 November 2025