Tzvika Mengel’s story is not just his own—it is the story of all of us.
At only five years old, Tzvika arrived in Israel from Germany with his family. His father, a man deeply connected to the land, worked the orchards in Kfar Yona (Central Israel) by day and guarded them by night, carrying on his shoulders the dream of building a homeland. From his father, Tzvika learned the values of hard work, resilience, and giving back to community.
As a young soldier, Tzvika helped pave the road to Eilat (Southern Israel), a route that still symbolizes Israel’s link from the central region to the southern port, and plays a crucial role in promoting development in the Negev (Southern Israel). Just like his father, Tzvika saw that through hard work, the vision of building a strong and prosperous country can be realized.
Throughout the years, Tzvika accompanied and assisted people with disabilities, unaware that one day he would lose his eyesight and find himself in need of help. “Going blind happened very quickly and unexpectedly. There was a time when I was able to cook for myself, but today I no longer can. The State doesn’t really help, the Association for the Blind gives us a lot, but Leket Israel’s support is above and beyond.”
Today, Tzvika, now 90 years old, gathers with his friends at the Association for the Blind in Haifa (Northern Israel), where they receive hot, nourishing meals thanks to Leket Israel. “The food comes hot and fresh-chicken, vegetables, and wholesome sides. People arrive with a sparkle in their eyes. They enjoy it so much. It gives us a sense of pride. It’s more than just food, it’s an opportunity to sit together, to talk, to tell jokes. It’s a time of community, the joys of life, and respect. For us, it’s an entire world.”
Tzvika’s life is a testament to resilience, generosity, and the unshakable spirit of a generation that built this country with their hands and their faith. And now, thanks to you, we have the privilege of giving back to him, and to so many others like him.
Leket Israel is proud to serve as the bridge between the nation’s surplus food and the people who need it most.