kindnessG’MACH: A One-Stop Shop for the San Diego Jewish Community
Poverty is a widespread issue that affects many communities, including the Jewish community in San Diego. Despite being one of the wealthiest cities in the United States, there are still individuals and families in the Jewish community who struggle to make ends meet. This can be due to various reasons such as low-wage jobs, unemployment, lack of affordable housing, and high costs of living. The situation is further compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic which has had a devastating effect on the economy, leading to increased poverty rates. Local Jewish organizations, synagogues, and charities work to support those in need by providing food, clothing, and financial assistance. However, more needs to be done to address the root causes of poverty and ensure that everyone in the Jewish community has access to the resources they need to thrive.To cater to the needs of the Jewish community in San Diego, programs such as kindnessG’MACH (formerly known as the G’mach San Diego Jewish Gift Closet) was established.
What is the History of G’mach?
“G’mach” stands for the phrase “Gemilut Chasadim” (גְּמִילוּת חֲסָדִים) which translates to “acts of loving kindness.” The tradition of G’mach is integral to Judaism, and refers to charitable organizations within the Jewish community, particularly those that provide assistance to people in need. The history of g’machim dates back to the early days of Jewish communities, where they were established to provide support to members of the community who were struggling, including widows, orphans, and the elderly. Over time, g’machim evolved to provide a wide range of services and support, including food, clothing, medical. Today, g’machim continue to play an important role in the lives of many Jews, providing a safety net for those in need and helping to strengthen the fabric of the community.
kindnessG’MACH, originally established in 2009 two women, Helene Bortz and Myrice Goldberg. Starting with just some clothing, shoes, and wedding dresses, the founders quickly learned people needed more — money for food, clothing, and household items. Their effort grew rapidly over the 14 years and G’mach evolved into a well-established facility assisting those in all aspects of life. Recipients needed many different social services beyond physical household goods and Helene and Myrice worked tirelessly in finding solutions for their client’s emotional, medical, transportation and various other needs. Over time the client needs not only expanded but became more complex and in 2020, Helene in Myrice decided to retire to spend more time with their grandchildren and aging parents. They transferred all client case work to Kindness Initiative, and continued to fund a year’s financial commitment to particular families.
Eventually, by February 2023, Kindness Initiative completely took over management of G’mach. They have professional case managers, a support volunteer corps, offer a broad array of social service collaborations with local resources, and have effective client service model that emphasizes client dignity, caring and compassion.
Who we Serve
kindnessG’MACH serves local Jews in need from a broad array of backgrounds, circumstances, and diverse needs, including, among others, the following profiles and particular needs:
- Struggling, financially vulnerable Jewish households
- Everything and varied, Jewish holidays supplies, clothing, special occasion items, household goods, toiletries, furniture
- Orthodox community
- Kosher housewares, dishes, books, high holiday supplies, linen, furniture and special occasion clothing such as weddings, suits, gifts
- Autism and special needs community
- G’mach creates a safe place to get the help they need, often by appointment enabling the family to gather and shop in quiet surroundings with reduced sensory over-load
- Israeli post-doc families
- Need everything to set up home – furniture, housewares, clothing, school uniforms. After 4 years generally donate back all items. This is a source of volunteers.
- Israeli lung and heart transplant patients
- Need everything for about 2 years
- Local Synagogues and Jewish schools
- Books, games, tablecloths and various Shabbat evening supplies.
- Residents of the San Diego Moishe House
- Young graduates need housewares, bedding, and furniture.
- Jewish Trans community members
- Increasing demand for clothing, housewares and furniture by appointment to allow for privacy.
- The Ken community:
- G’mach surplus clothing provided to help facilitate their Mexican community charities.
- Community members
- Grandparents borrow car seats, strollers, cribs, toys and books for out-of-town family visits. Items are returned after a short time, often with a donation. Also receive similar requests from families who are in town visiting for events such as weddings or bar mitzvahs.
Services Offered
kindnessG’MACH offers a wide range of services to meet the diverse needs of the Jewish community in San Diego. Some of the services include:
- Clothing for adults and children
- Infant supplies including clothing, cribs, strollers, car seats, and bedding
- Children’s supplies including clothing, shoes, school supplies, school uniforms, sports equipment and backpacks
- Toys, Games and Gifts
- Hygiene Products including soaps, shampoo, oral and eye care
- Linens, Dishes, Kitchen items including toaster ovens and coffee makers and Kosher Housewares
- Books
- Judaica items including kippot, prayer shawls, prayer books, Seder Plates, Hannukiot and Mezzuzahs
- Special Occasion needs including wedding dresses, tuxedos, suits, formal clothing, shoes, and accessories
- Maternity and New Mother goods
- Disability needs including wheelchairs, crutches, scooters, walkers
Furniture and Large Appliances
kindnessG’MACH connects furniture and appliance donors and those seeking these goods through an active Facebook page (access here). We post photos of the available items provided by donors and clients coordinate with G’mach first and then with the donor for pickup. Security precautions are built into this program.
How You Can Help
kindnessG’MACH relies on the generosity of the community to continue providing its services to those in need. There are several ways you can help, including:
- Donations: Monetary donations can be made to kindnessG’MACH to support its services and programs.
- Volunteer: G’mach San Diego is always in need of volunteers to help with its programs and services.
- Spread the Word: Share information about kindnessG’MACH with your friends, family, and community members to help spread the word about the organization and its mission.
kindnessG’MACH is an invaluable resource for the Jewish community in San Diego. It provides a range of material goods to meet the diverse needs of the community, including food, clothing, shelter, employment, and educational assistance. If you are looking for a way to support the Jewish community in San Diego, consider donating, volunteering, or spreading the word about kindnessG’MACH. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those in need.