Purim is loud. It’s colorful. It’s overflowing with costumes, clinking glasses, mishloach manot, and tables packed with food and laughter.

But tucked quietly between the megillah readings and the festive seudah is something far more powerful: the opportunity to make sure no one is left out.

Because while many of us are busy planning themes, baking hamantaschen, and coordinating deliveries, there are people in every community who experience Purim very differently. A widow whose table is quieter than it used to be. A college student far from home. Someone sitting in a hospital room. An elderly neighbor in a nursing facility. A single parent overwhelmed by the day. A family new to the community.

Here are some ways to include someone this Purim and ensure no one feels left out.

When Giving Mishloach Manot, Think One Step Further

It’s easy to exchange packages with friends and family, the people already in our circle. This year, consider expanding that circle intentionally.

-Add one extra name to your delivery list. Someone who might not be expecting it.

-Drop off a package to a neighbor who lives alone.

-Bring a small, thoughtful mishloach manot to a nurse, aide, or caregiver who will be working through the holiday.

-Let your children help choose a “mystery recipient”. Someone who could use a surprise.

It doesn’t have to be elaborate. In fact, sometimes the simplest package, delivered with eye contact and warmth, means the most.

And if someone is in the hospital or a nursing home, call ahead. Many facilities welcome small, sealed treats or cards. Even a handwritten Purim note can lift a spirit more than you realize.

Make Room at the Seudah

Purim’s seudah is meant to be joyous and abundant. And abundance isn’t just about food, it’s about seats around the table. Think about someone who might not have a seudah to attend.

A simple text, "We’d love to have you join us”, can completely change someone’s Purim.

If hosting feels overwhelming, even inviting someone for dessert or just for a l’chaim can make them feel remembered.

Don’t Forget Those Who Can’t Leave Home

Some people won’t be able to attend a seudah no matter how many invitations they receive. That’s where creativity comes in.

-Arrange a quick pre-Purim visit.

-Organize a small group to bring music or sing a few Purim songs outside a facility.

-Set up a video call during your seudah to include a relative who can’t attend.

-Send a photo of your table with a heartfelt message: “We’re thinking of you today.”

Sometimes inclusion isn’t about physically bringing someone in, it’s about reminding them they still belong.

Teach by Example

When your children help prepare an extra mishloach manot for someone who might otherwise be overlooked, they learn that simcha grows when it’s shared. When they see you rearrange a seating plan to include someone new, they absorb the value of kindness without needing a lecture.

This year, as you plan your costumes, menus, and deliveries, pause and ask:

Who might be alone?
Who might not be expecting anything?
Who could use an invitation?

Because the loudest joy on Purim isn’t always the music or the laughter. Sometimes it’s the quiet relief in someone’s heart when they realize they weren’t forgotten.