Leket Israel, the National Food Bank, is the leading food rescue organization in Israel. Unique among all other organizations that serve the poor in Israel and food banks worldwide, Leket Israel’s sole focus is rescuing healthy, surplus food and delivering it to those in need through partner nonprofit organizations.

Joseph Gitler immigrated to Israel from New York in 2000 and soon became acquainted with the statistics of poverty in the State of Israel. These statistics included the understanding that poverty referred to even those who work for a living yet struggle to survive on a daily basis and still remain below the poverty line.

Leket Israel deals with harvesting surplus agricultural produce and collecting cooked meals then sorting and distributing them to the needy throughout the country. In addition, the Nutrition and Food Safety department ensures that the the collection and distribution of the food is held to the highest food safety regulations. Additionally, Leket Israel only donates 100% nutritious food.

Leket Israel works with a staff of professional dietitians who conduct nutrition workshops for targeted populations geared toward raising awareness of proper nutrition.

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More about Joseph Gitler:

Joseph is a graduate of Yeshiva University and Fordham University Law School.  After making aliyah in 2000, he worked for three years as Director of International Sales & Development for a family software business.   He founded Leket Israel  in 2003 after witnessing significant food wastage in Israel at a time of rising poverty.  Joseph’s vision and steady hand have led the organization from a simple, one-man operation to Israel’s largest food rescue organization.

He is married to Leelah, has five children and enjoys biking, traveling and spending time with his kids.