First OGKSD Event 3/10/25

Baking, Bonding, and Bridging Generations: Milana’s Vision Brings Teens and Holocaust Survivors Together at Our Giving Kitchen San Diego

On March 10, 2025, Our Giving Kitchen San Diego (OGKSD) hosted an unforgettable event that united teenagers and Holocaust survivors in a powerful act of connection, remembrance, and giving. The event was the vision of Milana, an 8th grader from Kavod, who organized this community service project to address the issue of isolation that many elderly—especially Holocaust survivors—face.

Milana’s goal was not only to bring survivors and teens together to learn from one another but also to highlight the commonalities they share across generations. She wanted this to be more than just a conversation—she wanted them to experience something meaningful together. That’s why she planned a hands-on activity: baking challah and making chocolate chip cookies, working side by side to create something special for others.

As they braided challah and shaped cookies, the teenagers listened as the survivors shared their stories—memories of hardship, resilience, and survival. For the survivors, many of whom are in their upper 90s, this moment was profound. Having once faced hunger and uncertainty, they were now able to give back to those in need through OGKSD’s partnership with the Joyful Givers Foundation, which distributes food to San Diego’s food-insecure community.

The event didn’t end in the kitchen. As the last trays of cookies cooled, music filled the room, and an impromptu dance broke out. Survivors and teens, hand in hand, swayed and laughed together, proving that joy, hope, and resilience transcend generations.

Beyond the event itself, Milana hopes that these connections will last. With recipes exchanged and phone numbers shared, she envisions the teenagers continuing their relationships with their survivor partners—ensuring that these stories, friendships, and bonds remain long after the last cookie has been delivered.

This event is just the beginning. Our Giving Kitchen San Diego continues to bring people together to prepare, package, and deliver food to those in need, and volunteers are always welcome.

To be part of this meaningful mission, visit www.ogksd.org and sign up to volunteer. Together, we can feed the hungry, honor the past, and inspire the future—one meal, one story, and one dance at a time.