“You shall open your hand to your brother, to your poor and to your destitute in your land.” (Deuteronomy 15:9-11)

Tzedakah, commonly translated as “charity”, is often used synonymously with justice, truth and kindness. In Judaism, giving generously to those in need – family, neighbors and the greater community – is considered righteous behavior and an act of justice.. The Rabbi of the Warsaw Ghetto, Kolonymos Shapiro (1889-1943) taught: “The greatest think in the world is to do someone else a favor.” Through acts of benevolence that open our hearts to love, we grow closer to the Source and Giver of all life.