From Captain Aileen Grossberg:

On a clear, cool early spring night, 21 guests gathered at Shomrei’s MESH cafe for a bounteous pre Passover meal. Chef Aileen Grossberg was helped by super spud cutter Yechiel Felder. Teens Davida, Leelah,and Sarah were superb at everything they were asked to do from cutting fruit to buttering bread to washing dishes. Interns Rebecca and Siobhan helped keep the dining space running smoothly. It was all overseen by Adrienne and Joe with our security guard , also named Joe, keeping a careful eye on everyone.

The meal began with tuna salad, hummus, crackers and crudités, mostly leftovers and fridge cleaning items. The cool evening was warmed up with a sweet corn and pepper soup garnished with mini croutons. Next came a tossed green salad with Shomrei’s own balsamic dressing. Baked cod was finished with a citrus dressing and accompanied by roasted asparagus with red peppers and herbed roasted potatoes. Dessert was designed to use up scrumptious leftover brownies and cookies and was served with chocolate pudding and a side of fresh fruit.

Even the vegetarian guest was happy with the egg salad left from Saturday’s kiddush. And one guest said that the Shomrei twist on tuna salad was the best he’d ever had.

The guests actually applauded loudly when they heard what this restaurant quality meal would be.

About MESH:
The MESH Cafe (Montclair Emergency Services for the Homeless) is a cooperative effort between the MESH organization and local synagogues and churches.  Volunteers at each institution cook and serve hearty, nutritious meals for the hungry. Shomrei’s turn is on Tuesday nights. A good meal, and perhaps as important, social interaction and companionship offer respite to those who need it. Please help fulfill this crucial mitzvah by volunteering.

To sign up to help, go to shomrei.org/mesh.

Have questions?