5411 —חיזוק מאמצי הקהילה בעירוב, שמיטה ותעסוקה

B"H, Eve of Rosh Chodesh Iyar, 5717. Brooklyn.

Vaad Kfar Chabad Hashem aleihem yechyu.

Shalom u'Vrachah!

During the conversations that took place here in recent weeks, certain points became clear to me. It is surprising that I have not heard from you about these matters, and among them are:

a) Last year, when they defined (which area was defined? Also the old village, the other side?) the village with wire, I was just now told that after they began as usual, the mara d'asra Harav Shneor Zalman shlita suggested that it be done in a way that would be kosher for an eruv. The suggestion was accepted warmly and so it was done.

b) In recent years, people have spoken with members of the Vaad or leaders of the village about preparations for the upcoming Shemitah year. The speakers think that nothing has been done in this area, even though it is known throughout Eretz HaKodesh that in Komemiyut and Chafetz Chaim they observe Shemitah properly and begin preparing right after the previous Shemitah ends. And even though we do not cry over the past, at least now there should be interest in this matter. Certainly those involved in Komemiyut and Chafetz Chaim will provide all necessary information.

c) I spoke here with Haraha"ch etc. Reb Avraham shlita Drizin as well as received letters from members of Kfar Chabad about organizing groups (artiel) for handicrafts, tricotage and similar work. They explained to me that an obstacle is the need for working capital in an amount individuals cannot obtain or prepare on their own. This reasoning surprised me because surely there are several banks that give loans for such matters; however, it was not entirely clear to me. But last week I was told clearly that Bank LePoalim and similar institutions do give loans for such purposes—of course provided it is demonstrated that the loan will be used for its stated purpose and that those involved are capable to some degree at least of engaging in this work. It may also require a guarantee from the Vaad HaKfar but this too is possible. Furthermore, organizing such groups would also benefit point b above regarding Shemitah preparations.

It is surprising that until now no detailed reports have arrived regarding welcoming events and gatherings etc., and perhaps this has become like a "pot belonging to partners," where each relies on his fellow. As I have already said: in such cases it is better to double up than to lack entirely.

Blessings for good news in all of the above and success in all general and specific matters of the village.

Summary

The Rebbe urges communal leaders to proactively address issues like eruv construction, Shemitah preparation, and employment initiatives by seeking collaboration and practical solutions rather than relying on others or delaying action.