ABOUT

Ahavas Yisrael Charity Fund is primarily administered by volunteers and has an annual budget of over $3 million dollars.

In order to maximize the assistance we are able to offer those in need, Ahavas Yisrael works closely with individuals, families, and communal leaders. Since 1978, the Rabbi Chaim Nachman Kowalsky Memorial Ahavas Yisrael Charity Fund has fed, clothed, paid the rent, utility bills and medical bills for needy families in a way that allows them to maintain their dignity. Some of these families have fallen on hard times due to unemployment, personal and financial struggles, or illness. The goal of Ahavas Yisrael is to help these families get back on their feet by giving them a helping hand during their difficult time. Ahavas Yisrael recently employed a case worker who assists families with ongoing needs. Through collaborations with other organizations and foundations, Ahavas Yisrael is able to offer a variety of assistance programs including job training, Yom Tov financial support, food certificates, and foreclosure prevention.

All fundraising is done through this website, an annual community fundraising event, community mailings, and charity boxes located in retail locations throughout Baltimore.

The Talmud says

Supporting the needs of your own city takes precedence over helping charities elsewhere, so please make Ahavas Yisrael a priority in your charitable giving list.

Minimal Expenses

Outside of minimal operating and project expenses that are necessary to run this charity effectively, we have very few office and administrative expenses. Most of our work is done by volunteers.

Policies & Procedures

Decisions are made by Rabbis and respected lay-leaders representing a cross-section of our community. We welcome your suggestions and referrals for those who might need assistance. Please notify us by emailing eli@ahavasyisrael.org or rabbibrull@ahavasyisrael.org

“Ahavas Yisrael has quietly and discreetly helped me through school and helped me feel supported and cared for. I just graduated and could not have gotten my Masters without your help and the help of the Baltimore community.”
“Words alone cannot describe the tremendous relief I feel in receiving this very generous gift to help make our family simcha. This kind gift gives me Menuchas Hanefesh, and for that there not enough words to express my Hakaras HaTov.”
“I had my 8th spinal surgery and was feeling down and out due to the extra medical expenses and then I received two very generous checks and my spirits were lifted!”

“We’re extremely grateful for the financial support, but even more for the feelings of love and support we get from Ahavas Yisrael.”

“We are hard working people and we try to make ends meet on a regular basis, but Yomim Tovim present a challenge. It is always so appreciated when we receive a check from Ahavas Yisrael to ease the burden.”
“Not only has this much needed money helped with food for the holidays but also substantial medical bills I have incurred.”
“I want to thank you for your sensitivity and sincerity in helping me get back on track. I don’t take for granted the enormity of what chesed Ahavas Yisrael does for the Baltimore community.”
“I had been hoping for a way to replace my winter coat which is frayed and held together by tape. Due to the generosity of Ahavas Yisrael I can now buy a new one!”
“Besides for the financial help you also help with advice and encouragement. This is always done without making us feel bad or ashamed.”
“We received your generous check and as always it’s quite appreciated. It is going directly to Yom Tov expenses and it truly eases our anxiety and give us peace of mind.”

“As always, you are there for me and my children. Thank you for helping me get through a rough time when I lost my job this summer. It was because of your generosity that we made it through and now I am training for a new job. Your kindness and support have gotten me through in so many ways. As hard as I try to be independent and self-sufficient, there are times I don’t know what I’d do without your help.”

“It is always difficult for us to be on the receiving end, but we are so appreciative when we do receive.”

“I have known about Ahavas Yisrael since I moved to Baltimore but never expected to be on the receiving side. I admire the gentle, respectful work you have been doing.”

“We always feel like we are drowning, but when water started pouring into our daughters room, the ‘drowning feeling’ turned into ‘drowning reality.’ Thanks for helping us cover the exorbitant bill.”