Shomrei Shabbos Gemilus Chasodim Society

חברה גמילות חסדים שומרי שבת

Shomrei Shabbos Gemilus Chasodim Society (Brooklyn-based Free Loan Society)

Shomrei Shabbos Gemilus Chasodim Society is a communal organization dedicated to providing interest-free loans (gemilus chasadim) to members of the Jewish community in Brooklyn. The society, led by individuals such as Moreinu HaRav Yochanan Gordon, has a longstanding tradition of supporting both the needy and the financially stable, in accordance with the Torah's mitzvah of lending and acts of kindness.

Correspondence with the Rebbe

The Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, corresponded with the Shomrei Shabbos Gemilus Chasodim Society on several occasions, expressing appreciation for their holy work and offering guidance and blessings. In his letters, the Rebbe highlighted the importance of their annual gatherings, particularly when held around the Torah portion "Im Kesef Talveh," which emphasizes the obligation of lending as taught by our Sages in the Mechilta.

The Rebbe praised the society's activities, noting the number of loans distributed and encouraging them to continually "ascend in holiness" by increasing their efforts each year. He emphasized that the mitzvah of lending applies equally to the poor and the wealthy, citing the teaching that gemilus chasadim is even greater than tzedakah, as it can benefit all members of the community.

Themes and Guidance

In his correspondence, the Rebbe drew attention to the spiritual significance of lending, referencing the words of our Sages: "He who lends to G-d shows kindness to the poor; it is as if he lends to the Holy One Blessed Be He," and assured the society that their reward would be repaid by G-d "many times over and in a good and joyful way." The Rebbe also encouraged the society to approach their work with the perspective that the funds they lend are merely held in trust for the benefit of others, and that the opportunity to perform this mitzvah is itself a privilege granted by those in need.

Drawing on Chassidic teachings and the words of earlier Rebbes, the Rebbe urged the society to internalize the ethos that "the piece of bread I have is yours as much as it is mine," fostering a sense of unity and generosity. He concluded his letters with blessings for success in their holy work, and that all those involved should merit increased blessings, both materially and spiritually, for themselves and their families.

Shiurim in this topic
2417. The Value of Loans to Both the Poor and the Wealthy המעלה של הלואות לעניים ולעשירים
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3286. Support for Free Loan Society and the Deeper Meaning of Charity תמיכה בחברת גמ"ח ומשמעות עמוקה של צדקה
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4125. Success in Physical and Spiritual Acts through the Free Loan Society הצלחה במעשים גשמיים ורוחניים על ידי חברה גמילות חסדים
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