Top Rabbi Urges Support for Widows and Orphans Ahead of High Holy Days

Rabbi Mordechai Sternbuch, a leading decisor of Jewish law, has issued an impassioned plea for public support of widows and orphans ahead of the High Holy Days, a period of judgment in the Jewish calendar. He emphasized that contributing to the organization "Zeh L'Zeh" (This for That) would bring blessings of life, success, and wealth.

Speaking with emotion, Rabbi Sternbuch described the suffering of orphans and stated that supporting them is a vital responsibility. He urged everyone to contribute, highlighting that "adopting an orphan is equivalent to life." He stressed that by filling the void left by deceased parents, individuals can merit special protection and blessings for the coming year.

The "Zeh L'Zeh" organization, founded over thirty years ago by Rabbanit Rotenberg, provides extensive support to thousands of widows and tens of thousands of orphans. Services include warm homes, recreational activities, workshops, and close accompaniment during periods of mourning. For orphans, the organization arranges spiritual fathers and mentors, summer camps, bar and bat mitzvah celebrations, food packages, clothing, and emotional support, aiming to help families regain stability.

Rabbi Sternbuch reiterated that supporting these families is a significant mitzvah (commandment) that brings divine mercy and can favorably alter one's fate. The call to action encourages individuals to act now, support the cause, and adopt a widow or orphan, thereby receiving the blessings of the generation's great rabbis.