Tzedakah Fund

On June 1, 1987, the Beth Emet Board of Trustees adopted a proposal submitted by the Social Action Committee to establish the Tzedakah Fund. Its purpose is to support causes, organizations, individuals and projects that promote justice, equality, and social well-being; to recognize each Jew's obligation to perform the mitzvah of tzedakah (righteous giving) as a regular part of their daily lives.

Every Beth Emet member family receives a Tzedakah box as a reminder to contribute Tzedakah as each Shabbat or holiday begins. The appropriate prayer is printed on the box, to be recited before the Shabbat or holiday candles are blessed.

The Tzedakah Fund Committee conducts three major collections during the year, but donations or filled boxes may be brought to the synagogue office at any time.

The Committee provides donation cards which may be filled out in honor of a special occasion or in memory of an individual. When a card is received by the  Committee with a contribution, a notice of that contribution  is sent to the appropriate person.

The Tzedakah Fund Committee meets at least three times a year to consider applications  for grants. Guidelines and application forms are available to synagogue committees, professionals, and synagogue members to request funds for organizations and projects that are compatible with the committee’s goals and promote tikun olam.Members of the Tzedakah Fund Committee represent the Social Action Committee, the Executive Committee and Board of Trustees and the congregation at large. The Rabbis, Educational Director, and Social Action Committee chair (or chairs) are ex-officio members.