Upholding Kosher Standards
At The Bess and Moe Greenberg Family Hillel Lodge Long-Term Care Home of Ottawa (Hillel Lodge), we provide traditional, delicious, and well-balanced meals and snacks that enhance the quality of life and nutritional health of our residents. Our kitchen operates in accordance with Kashruth (Jewish dietary laws), which dictate specific guidelines for food preparation and consumption.
Kashruth encompasses various principles that define what is considered kosher, ensuring that all foods served are in alignment with Jewish dietary requirements. For instance, it mandates the types of animals that may be consumed, methods of slaughter, and prohibits the mixing of meat and dairy products. Additionally, every ingredient used must be certified kosher, meaning it is properly supervised and meets stringent standards.
Our kitchen is proudly certified kosher by the Ottawa Vaad HaKashrut, which ensures that our food preparation adheres to these important dietary laws. This commitment not only fulfills the religious and cultural needs of our residents but also reflects our dedication to providing nourishing meals that are both respectful of tradition and enjoyable. By offering kosher meals, we support our residents' dietary practices while promoting their overall well-being.
Diverse Selection
Residents can enjoy a diverse selection of freshly prepared meals, snacks, and beverages. Our balanced menus adhere to a seasonal 4-week cycle, reviewed by our Registered Dietitian. Menus are displayed on flat screens near the dining room entrances, and meals are served in the designated dining areas within each neighborhood.
WINTER/SPRING 2026 WEEK 1 Menu
WINTER/SPRING 2026 WEEK 2 Menu
Lunch and supper alternate between dairy and meat options, with each meal featuring soup or salad, a choice of entrée, a vegetable, and dessert. Cold juices are available at mid-morning, while hot and cold beverages and snacks are offered in the afternoon and before bedtime.
We emphasize the celebration of community and cultural events, proudly serving the traditional Friday night meal to welcome Shabbat, along with special items during Jewish holidays. We also host theme days and summer barbecues to enhance the dining experience.
Person-Centred Dining
In 2024, Hillel Lodge implemented the MealSuite person-centred dining solution across all neighborhoods to enhance the dining experience for residents. MealSuite includes integrated People Profiles that document residents' likes, dislikes, allergens, and dietary needs, ensuring that the right meal is delivered every time. Linked to the Point Click Care system, this feature allows our registered dietitian to input individualized dietary information easily, which staff can access during table-side ordering. This streamlining reduces verbal requests to the kitchen, fostering a more enjoyable atmosphere. Overall, MealSuite is a vital component of personalized care at mealtime.
Residents are invited to participate in our Food Committee meetings to share feedback on meals.
Bringing in Food
Keeping it kosher. No outside food or drinks can be consumed in public areas such as the main lobby, living rooms, lounges by elevators, dining rooms, the Café, and the Dream Garden.
External food and drinks can be stored and consumed within residents' rooms only.