Rabbi Sternbuch Urges Urgent Support to Expand Torah Study Networks Amid Financial Struggles

Rabbi Moshe Sternbuch has issued a passionate call to action, urging the establishment of a group of one thousand supporters to aid yeshiva students amid severe financial and social pressures. He highlighted the dire situation faced by many avreichim (married Torah scholars) who struggle to find study places and basic stipends due to recent government restrictions, including the cancellation of recognized tax receipts under Section 46, which has led to budget cuts and closures of some kollelim (Torah study institutions).

Despite his advanced age and heavy public responsibilities, Rabbi Sternbuch is spearheading a strategic expansion of the "Teshuvot VeHanhagot" kollelim network, which he founded. He insists that rather than shrinking, the Torah world must grow and accommodate all streams, including Sephardic, Ashkenazi, Hasidic, and Lithuanian communities. He described the network as a vanguard for the future of Torah educators and scholars in Israel.

Rabbi Sternbuch called on supporters to contribute 3,000 shekels each to fund the opening of new kollelim branches, emphasizing the spiritual merit and blessings associated with such donations. He promised a special blessing and a rare commemorative coin to the first thousand donors. He expressed deep anguish over the current plight of Torah learners, stating, "How can one sleep at night in such a situation? The Torah is being humiliated, and God is crying out, 'Wake up, wake up!'"

He concluded by stressing the importance of serious commitment to this cause, assuring donors that their generosity will bring divine protection and prosperity. Rabbi Sternbuch urged the community to recognize the critical nature of this effort and to join in with full dedication, promising that even if the effort seems costly now, it will ultimately yield great spiritual and material rewards.