Rutgers Presbyterian Church — New York City
Mayada Anjari came to the U.S. as a Syrian refugee and is building a new life for her family with love and support from Rutgers Presbyterian Church in New York City. To show her gratitude, Mayada prepared a meal. A supper series ensued and spread to other churches and synagogues across New York City, with volunteers helping in the kitchen. These dinners have provided income for Mayada’s family, raised awareness about refugees and nurtured connections among people who want to help. Now her recipes and the story of her journey and the culinary traditions that have sustained her are beautifully chronicled in a new book from Lake Isle Press: “The Bread and Salt Between Us” (which was named one of “The Best Cookbooks Coming Out This Fall” by Food & Wine). All involved volunteered their time and talents so that all proceeds will benefit Mayada’s family and other refugees and asylum seekers assisted by the church. Read excerpts at thebreadandsaltbetweenus.org.
– Nancy Muirhead, Chair, New Americans committee of Rutgers Presbyterian Church
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