Omaha’s Jewish community to thank first responders, healthcare workers on Christmas Eve

OMAHA, Neb. -- This Friday, Omaha’s Jewish community is getting ready to spread joy and thank those who are working away from their families in the fourth annual Operation Grateful Goodies.

Volunteers from Beth El Synagogue, Temple Israel, Beth Israel, the Jewish Federation of Omaha, and Chabad of Nebraska will be delivering boxes of treats and homemade thank-you notes to police officers, firefighters, doctors, nurses, pharmacists, emergency veterinarians, nursing home staff, and others.

Organizer Linda Saltzman says the effort began four years ago, and that it has been rewarding to see it grow each year.  Saltzman says that last year, volunteers delivered 236 gift boxes to 112 locations. In past years, volunteers have made deliveries on Christmas Day, but Saltzman says the event was scheduled for the 24th this year to avoid conflicting with the Jewish Sabbath.

Sara Kohen has participated in Operation Grateful Goodies with her family each year.

“It’s a way for us to show our appreciation, and it’s a great, hands-on opportunity for the kids to learn about the importance of saying thank you,” Kohen said.

Families, teens, couples and anyone with a few hours to spare can sign up to participate in Operation Grateful Goodies at https://www.bethel-omaha.org/form/grateful-goodies.html.