A centuries-old bond with Eretz Yisrael
For generations, the Rabbi Meir Baal HaNes Pushka has linked Jewish homes with the people of Eretz Yisrael. Here is the story in brief.
How it began
The early collections for the poor of Eretz Yisrael reached Jewish communities abroad. Gabbaim placed Pushkas in homes and batei midrash, gathered the coins and sent help to the holy cities.
The Rebbes of Kosov and Vizhnitz
The Ahavas Shalom of Kosov took responsibility for the fund from his rebbe, Rabbi Zev Wolf of Tchernostrah. His successors, including the Toras Chaim and Tzemach Tzaddik, continued this work. Generations of Vizhnitz Rebbes devoted themselves to supporting the people of Eretz Yisrael.
The Pushka in Jewish homes
Before Shabbos candles, at a simchah, in a time of need or in gratitude for a yeshuah, Jews give tzedakah in the merit of Rabbi Meir Baal HaNes and say “Eloka D’Meir Aneini.” Parents pass this familiar mitzvah on to their children.
Where the help goes
The Kollel’s work has included help for families before Nissan and Tishrei, support for Torah learners, and assistance with weddings and other pressing needs. Every donation joins this work of supporting the people of Eretz Yisrael.
Continuing the mitzvah
Keep a Pushka in your home, shul or business, give a one-time donation or become a regular partner. Each gift continues the tzedakah that Jewish families have cherished for generations.