TZEDAKAH FUND
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

The Tzedakah Fund is one of the greatest accomplishments of the Bnai Brith Cuban Jewish Relief Project. The Fund has helped to revitalize the Jewish community, especially Bnai Brith's Mamonides Lodge in Cuba. These people have been empowered by including them in the Fund's decision-making process. Within a year, the lodge has grown from 20 inactive members to 50 active members.

What Is The Tzedakah Fund?

The Tzedakah Fund is a component of the B'nai B'rith Cuban Jewish Relief Project that supplements the limited income of elderly and retired members of Cuba's Jewish community.

Part of it functions as an Emergency Fund.

Why Is The Tzedakah Fund Needed?

In Cuba, anyone past 60 who is retired receives a government stipend of only $10 per month, along with some food allowance. For the majority of these people, this meager sum is their sole means of financial support.

How Is The Emergency Fund Used?

Hilda - Tzedakah fund recipient

Individuals receiving the funds use them primarily for basic living expenses. The fund can also be used to respond to emergency situations such as, for example, a collapsed roof.

How Are Recipients Chosen?

B'nai B'rith has a lodge in Cuba that reviews interested individuals, to determine if they need the support. Recipients are chosen based on the advice of the lodge's leaders.

How Much Support Do Recipients Receive?

Recipients receive $10 a month from the Tzedakah Fund. This, combined with their government stipend, doubles their income to Cuba's average wage of $20 per month.

I Want To Make A Difference. What Amount Should I Contribute?

Any amount is appreciated, but we suggest amounts of $120 and $240. These amounts guarantee that an individual will have support for at least a year or two.

Is My Donation Tax Deductible?

Yes. B'nai B'rith is a 501(c) organization.

How Can I Donate?

Please send a check or money order payable to the B'nai B'rith Cuban Jewish Relief Project (with "Tzedakah Fund" in the memo) to:

B'nai B'rith Cuban Jewish Relief Project
1831 Murray Avenue, Suite 205
Pittsburgh, PA 15217

How Can I Learn More?

You may email Stanley Cohen, International Chairman at bbrelief@earthlink.net. He can also be reached at:

B'nai B'rith Cuban Jewish Relief Project
1831 Murray Avenue #205
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Ph (412) 521-2390
Fx (412) 521-0386