The Rising Cost of Passover: A Challenge for Families in Need
Mar 30, 2025
At Yad Ezra V’Shulamit, we believe that no one should have to choose between celebrating a cherished holiday and putting food on the table. That’s why we are working tirelessly to provide over 60,000 food baskets to families in need, ensuring that everyone can observe Passover with dignity and joy.
A Holiday of Traditions—and Expenses
Passover is unique in its traditions. One of them is the well-known practice of spring cleaning. More than just tidying up, it’s a spiritual and physical preparation for the holiday, ensuring that every crumb of chametz is removed from the home.
But at the heart of Passover is the food. The Seder brings families together to retell the story of the Exodus, and the holiday itself lasts eight days in Israel. That means families must prepare multiple meals using specific foods that often come at a premium price. For those already struggling financially, these extra costs can be incredibly difficult to manage.
Matzah, the essential unleavened bread of Passover, is a significant expense—especially for large families. Other staples like eggs, fish, and meat also see price spikes due to increased demand. Families are left facing painful decisions: buy the food needed to honor Passover traditions or cut back on other essentials. For those already living in poverty, there’s simply no way to stretch their budgets further.
The High Cost of Passover in 2025
This year, food prices are at an all-time high. Inflation and economic challenges have driven up costs, making it harder than ever for families to afford the basics. While fruits and vegetables remain exempt from sales tax, many other Passover essentials are not. The recent increase in the Value Added Tax (VAT) to 18% has made even basic necessities more expensive, adding yet another burden to struggling households.
Beyond food, families must also consider other holiday-related costs. Passover often means hosting guests, gathering with extended family, and purchasing new kitchen items to comply with the laws of this holiday. For those already stretched thin, these extra expenses can make it feel impossible to fully participate in the holiday’s traditions.
For struggling families, these rising costs mean that the joy of Passover is overshadowed by financial stress. No one should have to feel that way, especially during a holiday meant to bring people together in gratitude and hope.
You Can Make a Difference
At Yad Ezra V’Shulamit, we are committed to ensuring that every family can celebrate Passover with dignity. With your support, we can provide thousands of food baskets filled with essential items and grocery vouchers, helping families put nourishing meals on their tables without worry.
Each food basket contains all of the food items that a family needs to last the holiday of Passover. This includes enough matzah, chicken, produce, grape juice, and pantry staples to last the holiday. Some recipients also receive vouchers for local grocery or clothing stores, allowing them to purchase fresh ingredients, new clothing, or shoes—ensuring they can fully embrace the holiday spirit. Our baskets do more than just provide sustenance—they bring families a sense of normalcy, allowing them to partake in the holiday just like everyone else.
When you give, you’re doing more than just providing food—you’re giving hope. You’re ensuring that families can celebrate without stress, that children can experience the joy of tradition, and that no one has to feel alone in their struggle.
Join us in making a difference this Passover. Together, we can bring joy, dignity, and relief to those who need it most- one act of kindness at a time.