“Gelt It Forward” is more than a slogan playing on words; it is an initiative that combines direct community support with chinuch centered on the mitzvah of tzedakah. As part of its annual winter campaign, Chevra Simchas Shabbos V’Yom Tov (CSSY) distributed special tzedakah envelopes to Crown Heights schools, including both boys’ and girls’ institutions.
CSSY expressed its appreciation to the participating schools for their partnership and support, including Bnos Menachem, Bais Rivkah, Bais Chaya Mushka, and the boys’ schools Oholei Torah, Darchi Menachem, United Lubavitch Yeshiva, ULY Ocean Parkway and Ohr Menachem.
Each envelope contained two $1 bills, one designated as Chanukah gelt for the child, and the second intended for tzedakah. Students were encouraged to give the tzedakah dollar and to continue collecting additional funds throughout Chanukah, with the envelopes to be returned to CSSY after Yom Tov.
The initiative actively involves children in giving and emphasizes personal responsibility for helping others in the community. The program reflects the guidance of the Rebbe, who repeatedly encouraged the giving of Chanukah gelt, especially to children, and emphasized that children should be educated from a young age to give tzedakah themselves.
The campaign comes at a time of increased need in Greater Crown Heights.
“Every 90 minutes, a family turns to CSSY for help with basic necessities,” said Benjy Stock, Director of CSSY. “That includes groceries, heating costs, critical therapy for family members, and school-related expenses. Today, two in five families in our community are struggling just to meet everyday needs.”
Through the “Gelt It Forward” campaign, CSSY aims to raise $500,000 to support families through the winter months. Funds raised help provide winter clothing for children, Shabbos meals, family therapy, and emergency rent assistance to prevent eviction. Organizers note that involving children was a central focus of the campaign.
By placing tzedakah directly into their hands, the initiative seeks to foster a lifelong connection to giving and communal responsibility. Community members are invited to participate by contributing at cssy.org/gelt and by encouraging children to take an active role in acts of tzedakah during Chanukah.
Parents are asked to assist their children in filling the envelope and returning it to CSSY.
As Chanukah lights illuminate homes throughout Crown Heights, CSSY’s campaign aims to ensure that the Yom Tov’s message of light and generosity is reflected in meaningful support for families across the community.
Wishing you and your family a freilechen Chanukah.
For more information or to donate, visit CSSY.org
