Similar organizations operate throughout the country, but most specialize in serving the needs of a specific segment of the Jewish community. He estimates that nearly 12,000 Chicago-area Jews are served by Maot Chitim each year. The group is able to deliver more meals this year because it was a good year for fund-raising. The non-profit organization operates solely on cash donations from congregations and foundations, according to Fields. The food is purchased from area kosher wholesalers and, according to Fields, most of them lower their profit margin to help Maot Chitim afford more.
Volunteers help pack the food, load the vehicles and make the deliveries.
Some bulk deliveries are made to buildings with large Jewish populations, but the majority of the packages are delivered in private cars and vans. These yom tov packages include kosher chickens, gefilte fish, eggs, Shabbat and Yahrzeit candles and honey cake. While most deliveries are made to traditionally Jewish areas like West Rogers Park, Skokie and Lincolnwood, the group serves the entire metro area. Families with young children are especially encouraged to make deliveries. And Jews of all ages are introduced to the neighborhoods that have helped shape the community.