Volunteers Honor Fallen Soldiers by Preparing Thousands of Meals Weekly

A dedicated group of volunteers, known as "Shishi Schnitzel" (Schnitzel Friday), gathers every week in Nir Galim to prepare thousands of schnitzel sandwiches for soldiers serving on various fronts. The initiative, which began after the October 7th attacks, aims to provide a taste of home and a reminder of civilian support to soldiers, even as life in Israel slowly returns to a semblance of routine.

The volunteers, who consider themselves on "civilian reserve duty," work through the night and into the early morning hours, frying schnitzel, preparing buns, and packaging meals. They also cater to diverse dietary needs, offering gluten-free options, sabich for vegetarians, and falafel for vegans. The operation relies entirely on donations and the commitment of individuals, some of whom travel long distances to participate.

Beyond providing sustenance, "Shishi Schnitzel" has incorporated a poignant memorial element. Each week, the activity is dedicated to a different fallen soldier. A sticker featuring the soldier's photo, details, and a brief story is attached to every sandwich. During a weekly gathering, family members and friends share memories of the fallen, creating a moment of reflection amidst the busy kitchen.

These memorial stickers are collected and added to a "Heroes' Wall" at the initiative's headquarters, which now features over a hundred fallen soldiers. The volunteers emphasize that any family wishing to memorialize a loved one can reach out, as they believe everyone is worthy of remembrance. The project has distributed up to 5,700 meals in a single Friday to soldiers in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria, and sometimes in Judea and Samaria.

Despite the ongoing need, the "Shishi Schnitzel" initiative faces challenges, including a recent decline in donations and volunteer numbers. The volunteers express a strong desire for the project to eventually cease, signifying an end to the conflict and the return of all soldiers home safely. They hope the spirit of kindness and mutual support will continue to be channeled into other positive endeavors.