S.PETERSBURG, Russia – Although a common site throughout Israel, the United States, and other countries, the Tzedaka (charity) box is only now starting to become a standard fixture in Jewish homes and stores in the former Soviet Union.
In S. Petersburg, Russia, the Great Choral Synagogue has started a campaign to encourage every Jewish family to have a Tzedaka box of their own in their home. Explained one community leader, “The Tzedaka box helps create a ‘holy corner’ in the home. According to Jewish teachings, it is better to give small amounts of charity daily rather than the equivalent amount just once.”
Previously, many people only gave tzedaka when they visited the synagogue. But now they have the opportunity to fulfill this important precept on a regular basis. When the Tzedaka box is full, people will be encouraged to bring the contents to the synagogue. The money will be used to provide gifts for the elderly, to help subsidize holiday celebrations in the synagogue, as well as being used toward scholarships for children in the local Jewish schools.
The Jewish community of S. Peterburg is a member of the Federation of Jewish Communities of Russia.
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