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Almonos Await Generous Matanos L’evyonim from Mesamche Lev As Purim nears, there is a quiet anticipation in the homes and hearts of widows in Eretz Yisroel and the United States who are looking forward to receiving matanos l’evyonim from Mesamche Lev. The matanos l’evyonim will brighten an otherwise-challenging holiday. The widows will have to lead the Purim seudos, take their children to hear the megillah, and create a joyous atmosphere; despite the grief and darkness in their hearts. Mesamche Lev’s generous matanos l’evyonim will ease their plight and bring them joy. Ever since Harav Zalman Ashkenazi, zatzal, founded the organization over forty years ago, the Purim campaign has focused on almonos and yesomim. Harav Ashkenazi, zatzal, had a special place in his heart for widows and orphans. He felt their loneliness and pain, understood their challenges, and dedicated his life to relieving their burden. Today Mesamche Lev’s generous matanos l’evyonim continue to bring families relief and joy. In recent years, Mesamche Lev has expanded to include American divorcees in the matanos l’evyonim campaign. A long-neglected demographic, divorcees share many of the challenges faced by widows. Mesamche Lev’s assistance makes a real difference in their lives. Mesamche Lev will deliver matanos l’evyonim directly to fatherless families, bo b’yom, on the day of Purim; allowing donors to fulfill their halachic obligations in the best possible manner. Each matanos l’evyonim check will be sent along with at least one beautiful platter of meat, fish, fruit, or vegetables. At a time when we are all so busy with mishloach manos, costumes, and the Purim meal, it is wise to consider the words of the Rambam, who rules that one should spend more on matanos l’evyonim than on the Purim seudah or mishloach manos. The Rambam says, “There is no greater or more beautiful simcha than to bring joy to the hearts of aniyim, yesomim, and almonos. (Megilah 82)” The organization’s Purim budget is well over $200,000. Mesamche Lev is counting on the community to join them in bringing joy to almonos and yesomim, by helping them raise this large sum. The many rabbonim who endorse Mesamche Lev and witness the organization’s exceptional work firsthand urge the community to join Mesamche Lev in this important effort. The rabbonim also bestow their blessings upon all who participate. Donations can be mailed to Mesamche Lev, 1364 53rd Street, Brooklyn, NY 11219. Contributions can also be made by calling 718-506-1400; or at mesamchelev.org. All contributions received before Purim are guaranteed to be distributed on Purim. |
