Drizin Gives Pesach Bonus to 85 Crown Heights Kollel Members

By COLlive reporter

Just days after a new structure was introduced to bring stability to Kollel Menachem, members of the Crown Heights kolel received uplifting news: a generous Pesach gift from longtime supporter Reb Sholom Ber Drizin and his family.

The contribution, distributed to 85 yungeleit learning in the kolel, is intended to ease the financial burden of Yom Tov expenses. The announcement was shared on Wednesday following a full day of learning.

This marks nearly two decades of consistent support from Drizin, a real estate mogul known for his appreciation of the yungeleit’s hasmodah in dedicating themselves fully to Torah study. Each member will receive a bonus to help cover Pesach needs.

The initiative was facilitated by Reb Noach Fox, a longtime advocate on behalf of the kolel, which was founded by the Rebbe and operates under the auspices of the Rebbe’s mazkirus.

The timely support comes in the wake of recent developments aimed at securing the kolel’s future. As COLlive reported, a new framework was launched under the leadership of Rabbi Shmaya Krinsky of Machne Israel and Rabbi Menachem Heller, who directs the kolel.

They distributed stipends to 40 full-time yungeleit ahead of Pesach and are working on establishing a more stable funding model.

With broader efforts underway to strengthen funding, improve infrastructure, and expand participation, the Pesach bonus provides a tangible boost of encouragement to those who continue the legacy of full-time Torah learning in Crown Heights as the Rebbe requested.

For more: KolelMenachem.org