“It’s been 10 years since we were in seminary together, but I just wanted to ask if you could support my new shlichus!”
Sound familiar? If your inbox looks anything like mine, you’ve probably received a few of these heartfelt messages this year. Young couples embarking on their shlichus journey often reach out to friends and classmates for support – and rightfully so. It’s an incredible mission, and it’s inspiring to see so many people stepping up to make a difference in Jewish communities around the world.
But recently, one of these messages made me pause and reflect.
I thought about the many times I’ve joyfully donated to help a new Chabad house get off the ground, $36 here, $100 there and sometimes even ongoing contributions for a friend’s cause. These are important and beautiful gestures of support. But then I asked myself: when was the last time I did something similar for an organization right here in Crown Heights?
They say that tzedakah begins at home and that doesn’t just mean our own families. It means our communities, our neighbors, the people and institutions that are there for us every single day.
Here in Crown Heights, we’re blessed with incredible organizations that work tirelessly to serve our families, educate our children, and strengthen the fabric of our community. These aren’t “other people’s causes” – they’re ours.
One such cornerstone is Mikvah Mei Chaya Mushka (MCM), now launching it’s 5th Annual Auction. For the past decade, MCM has provided a beautiful, welcoming space where thousands of women have fulfilled the mitzvah of taharas hamishpacha with dignity and comfort. With stunning amenities and a peaceful atmosphere, it’s a space designed to uplift and inspire and it continues to serve us, day in and day out.
Now, we have an opportunity to give back.
Supporting MCM isn’t just a donation – it’s an investment in the spiritual heart of Crown Heights. It’s a way to honor the women who uphold this mitzvah, and to strengthen the community we call home.
So yes, keep supporting your friend’s new shlichus in Kansas. Send a donation to your cousin’s Chabad house in Texas. But also take a moment to recognize the power of giving right here, where your impact is felt so directly.
The MCM Auction is now live, offering dozens of elegant prizes, from dream vacations and radiant jewelry to $10,000 in cash. And beyond the prizes, it’s a chance to show your support for something deeply meaningful: a cause that’s truly your own.
Support your mikvah. Support your community. Support your home.
Donate now.
btw i think “tzedaka starts at home”is a gemara babasra 8b… (tell me if im right) anyways shluchim are “at home”… i feel like everyone is taking their eyes off the target… we need real achdus and to do biussness with each other… when your freind tells you”i dont work with jews” tell him “whattttt????” lets work on offence not deffence!!!