COLUMBIA, S.C. — The Tree of Life Congregation, one of the oldest Jewish synagogues in Columbia, held its annual fundraiser, the Big Nosh, on Sunday. The yearly event brings the community together for food and culture.
“It usually happens in May," Patty Tucker said. "It’s our annual fundraiser; we provide all different kinds of Jewish food."
Tucker, the president of the Tree of Life Synagogue, said they’ve been holding the event for 20 years, providing options like matzah ball soup, brisket and more.
“I love the latkes, and we just love the food; it’s really good," Vanessa Mota said. "The brisket melts in your mouth."
“We are a diverse group; already, we have an American, we have a Brazilian, and I’m from South Africa, so we’re used to being in different cultures and trying different food,” Mark Geel said.
But it’s not all about food. The event also offers a chance to learn about new or different cultures. The Rabbi, Erik Uriarte, said many people who attend have different religious backgrounds.
“So, the Jewish community has been part of Columbia for - our synagogue is 128 years old, and the Jewish community has been part of South Carolina since even before the United States began,” Uriarte said.
Community members also had the chance to tour the museum and sanctuary to learn about the Jewish faith.
“It's always important to say that, 'Hey, we are part of the greater community; we’re your neighbors,' and we don’t just want to be this building that people drive past,” he said.
The money raised at the fundraiser went toward funding the synagogue’s budget.
