Gemach Gives Torahs on Loan

Mr. Bentzion Chanowitz, a long time resident of Flatbush, has announced the opening of the Beis Yisroel Torah Gemach, a free loan organization that will provide Torah scrolls to shuls on a temporary basis.

Chanowitz has been involved for over 10 years in lending Torah scrolls that he owns and is currently in the process of sponsoring the writing of another Sefer Torah.

He says he’s motivated by a Talmudic passage (Kesubos, 50:A), where Rav Chisda discusses a verse in Psalms which alludes to wealth and riches being part of a home. Rashi, in his commentary on this Talmudic passage, explains that this pertains to owning and loaning Torah scrolls.

“Currently there are 21 Jewish organizations and Chabad Houses that are waiting for primary and secondary Torah scrolls,” he says. “These clients require long term placements for primary Torahs and there many more clients who are requesting placements for secondary scrolls. Some organizations only need Torahs on a temporary basis.”

The Beis Yisroel Torah Gemach has launched a web site (www.bytg.org) that explains the program and provides contact information.

The Gemach acts as “matchmaker” with full contract to facilitate the loan and has partnered, among others, with Merkos Suite 302 at Lubavitch World Headquarters.

“Everyone I know who travels for business or vacation always looks up the local Chabad House in search of a minyan and kosher food,” Chanowitz said. “Now these travelers will have ways of showing their appreciation.”

He hopes that individuals and families who own a Torah that is not in regular use, will step up to offer their Torah on a short or long term basis to shuls that do not own one yet.

Before the Torah is sent out, Rabbi Zvi Chaim Pincus, a sofer from Tiferes Stam will inspect each Torah Scroll, using computer technology, and prepare it for use.

Find out more at www.bytg.org.