Louise Ottilie Fresco, Dutch scientist and writer known for her work on globally sustainable food production once said, “Food, in the end, in our own tradition, is something holy. It’s not about nutrients and calories. It’s about sharing. It’s about honesty. It’s about identity.” 

Food plays a significant role in not just our physical well-being but also our emotional health.  Many people associate food with love, care, and nurturing, and food shared with others can create feelings of bonding, security, and happiness. 

With these thoughts in mind, Makom is excited to share our partnership with Char Bar, renowned Kosher restaurant in DC.  The result of this partnership is the food truck, Makom on a Roll; Sandwiches Supporting Self-Determined Lives. 

Why is Makom launching a food truck, you may ask?  What does Makom have to gain from a food truck?  The easy answer to both questions is opportunity.  Makom on a Roll provides the unique opportunity for individuals with intellectual and development disabilities (IDD) the chance to work in a fast-paced industry and gain useful skills as interns that can be transferred into future employment.  And of course, there is the opportunity to bring delicious Kosher meals to the community. 

Who are the key players at Makom on a Roll, and why have we dedicated ourselves to this new and creative endeavor?   

Michael Chelst, owner of Char Bar, acknowledges that some people he knows with IDD have driven him to partner with Makom.  A close family friend while growing up, and more recently, his niece with Down Syndrome whom his brother adopted in Jerusalem, both enabled him to see the value in providing meaningful opportunities for these individuals to learn and live the lives they strive for.  Michael also wants to bring greater accessibility for Kosher food to the community.  He recalls the problems his family encountered while growing up, as avid travelers, finding Kosher food options.  Michael’s favorite dish at Char Bar is the Brisket Nachos! 

Nathan Ashner will be the manager and mashgiach on the truck.  Nathan is excited to bring his combined passion for food (he “lives to cook!”), his knowledge of Kashrut and food service/safety, and his experience in working with kids with IDD to Makom on a Roll.  He will be working hands-on with Makom interns, ensuring they learn valuable skills that can open doors for them to achieve success going forward.  He enjoys meeting and working with new people and is always striving to learn.  Right now, although subject to change, Nathan’s favorite thing to cook is pizza! 

And I am Julie Greenwald, the events coordinator at Makom.  Through my involvement with Makom, I have grown to understand the connection between opportunities, support, and success.  Marrying passion for event planning with my desire to see everyone succeed, has brought me to work with Makom on a Roll.  In my role, I will be the liaison between Makom and Char Bar, ensuring that we work together to provide the best possible experience for everyone, both in terms of training and dining.  And my favorite Char Bar item is the Brisket Bruschetta! 

To take this on the road, no pun intended, the Makom on a Roll food truck will also be available for rental for private events.   To follow Makom on a Rolls’ daily location, to view our seasonal menu, to book an event, or to learn more about Makom on a Roll, please visit makomonaroll.org and @makomonaroll on Instagram for more information. 

Makom on a Roll looks forward to seeing you for lunch!