Jewish tradition teaches that there is something even better than charity…
Nearly a thousand years ago, the sage Maimonides wrote:”A loan is better than charity, for it enables one to help himself.”
And Jewish communities around the world have operated interest-free loan funds for just this purpose.
Our favorites:
Ozer Dalim, operating community-based funds in 35 cities throughout Israel. Read about them here. Or call them at 718-434-2228 to donate.
And the Israel Free Loan Associationwhich grants over 400 loans every month. Check out their website and donate on-line.
We were particularly delighted to receive an email from Professor Eliezer Jaffe, an old friend, and the founder of the IFLA with this great news:
The Israel Free Loan Association (IFLA) received a major donation in March from Trudy and Bob Gottesman of New York City. The Gottesmans granted $1 million to the IFLA to provide interest free loans to low income Israeli individuals and struggling small businesses. Mr. Gottesman is also publicly challenging other donors to match the donation in an effort to encourage others to assist the IFLA.
Love the gift to this worthy cause and especially love the challenge issued by the donors.
David