Rivka’s Special Seder  

May 1, 2021

When Rivka learned that San Antonio Jewish Senior Services (SAJSS) was going to deliver Passover meals to older adults around the community and realized that she would be on her own for Seder this year, she decided to open her home to guests who otherwise would have been alone for Seder as well. The result? Six lovely ladies spending a wonderful Seder together at Rivka’s house. While dinner was augmented by Rivka’s home cooking, the main course consisted of food prepared by Café Rodfei, ordered, organized, and delivered by SAJSS, and paid for by SAJSS along with a grant from the Jewish Federation of San Antonio’s Community Crisis Allocation’s Committee and donations from Congregation Agudas Achim Sisterhood and many individuals throughout the community. Keeping health and safety in mind, Rivka set up a physically distanced dinner and followed COVID safety guidelines. Everyone in attendance agreed that Rivka’s impromptu Seder was informative and authentic, and it made this Passover extra special.

One participant said, “This was one of the best Seders I have ever attended!”  

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, SAJSS was unable to host a model Seder in the assisted living facilities as has been done in past years. However, delivering Passover treats to Jewish residents in these facilities and to other older adults around the community to help them celebrate and enjoy Passover brought holiday joy to the recipients, volunteers, and staff alike. The broad community support this Passover also demonstrates that older adults remain a top community priority and that the San Antonio Jewish community is vibrant, warm, and resilient.