1247 —תגובת המגבית היהודית המאוחדת והדרכה על קרן השמיטה

B"H, 22 MarCheshvan, 5712.

Brooklyn, NY.

Shalom u'Vrachah!

I received your request through the vavac"h iy"a nu"m etc. Harap"h Altaheuz, that I speak with Dr. Schwartz, director of the United Jewish Appeal, regarding the memorandum about the Shemitah Fund that you gave him when he was in Eretz HaKodesh may it be rebuilt and established.

Your request was fulfilled, and I was very surprised when I was informed of his response—that he had already answered you negatively regarding your request (claiming that he does not have a fund for this purpose and other reasons; especially—these are his words—that it is difficult to explain to donors here in America to contribute to this cause since it has become publicized that the Chief Rabbinate found a way to permit work during Shemitah, etc.).

I also learned—and this is practically relevant—that the Jewish Agency has set aside a sum of 125,000 as a Shemitah Fund. Therefore, you should approach the Agency in Eretz HaKodesh directly with your request, and obviously, acting quickly is praiseworthy.

Enclosed is the booklet for Cheshvan which was published... With regards to each and every one in particular.

Summary

The Rebbe writes about efforts to secure support for the Shemitah Fund and advises direct action with relevant agencies when obstacles arise. Promptness and persistence are encouraged in communal matters.