Redbridge synagogues are planning charity drives for a Jewish-led day of social action next month.

Mitzvah Day, of which the Recorder is a media partner, aims to bring together people of different ages, faiths and walks of life to improve the community.

Woodford Liberal Synagogue is collecting dry and non-perishable food for a homeless hostel in Ilford.

The synagogue will deliver the goods to Jason Lee House, which provides accommodation for people with mental health and drug or alcohol abuse problems, on the day.

Children from the community will also be putting on a concert for people in the synagogue’s Friendship Club.

The founding principle of Mitzvah Day is that time, not money, should be given to make a difference in the community.

Organiser Merle Muswell said: “It’s good that other groups are getting involved in Mitzvah Day.

“It’s always good to do good deeds so it doesn’t have to be exclusive to our faith.”

Clayhall United Synagogue is planning to continue work started last year at a sensory garden for disabled children.

Last year, volunteers went to ELHAP in Woodford Green to help renovate the garden.

The centre includes an adventure playground that was designed and built for children and young people with disabilities.

Fiona Sapler, from Clayhall United Synagogue, said volunteers want to build on the work from last year.

She added: “We dug it up, planted flowers, made a mural and put little sensory bits and pieces around.

“I knew it was a really worthwhile project because I used to work with ELHAP.

“I hope a lot of people get involved this year.”

Schools and community groups across Redbridge are also planning to get involved with hands-on projects on Mitzvah Day.

The national day, on November 18, is in its eighth year and expects to attract 25,000 volunteers to support more than 800 projects across the country.

For information on Mitzvah Day or to get involved, visit www.mitzvahday.org.uk.