An Extraordinary Tzedakah Initiative in Solidarity with Israel
It’s always a huge source of pride for me and my Bialik colleagues to see how our students truly embrace the concept of Tzedakah. We know that most students are already learning this value at home, but at school we are able to put it in context and give students many opportunities to give back, show empathy for others and work towards Tikkun Olam — healing the world.
October 7, 2023 was not only a momentous day in all our lives, it also made a huge impression on our students. Parents were visibly worried and the collective sense of unease was shared among teachers, staff, families and across generations. In the days that followed, dozens of students, parents and teachers came forward, each with the same question: “What can we do to support Israel during this tragic time?” This question became the catalyst for an initiative that grew into something extraordinary at Bialik.
We set up a committee and together, we decided that we would find a way for our students to show solidarity with Israel through tangible action. This became their Tzedakah initiative — a means for students to feel empowered, connected and impactful — supporting Israel through acts of giving that carried real meaning.
The students fully embraced the project. They immersed themselves in researching the stories of various Israeli charities. Our Primary, Elementary, and Senior Divisions each took on the responsibility of learning about Israeli organizations doing essential work and they carefully made a selection. I was amazed to see how seriously they discussed the charities together and how pleased they were to vote for the three charities that they wanted their division to support: Tnu LaChayot Lichyot for our Primary Division students, Krembo Wings for our Elementary Division students, and Schneider Children’s Medical Center of Israel for our Senior Division students.
It was powerful when we saw the pride and purpose in each student as they prepared to rally support for these organizations. They knew they were doing something significant, something that connected them directly to their Jewish homeland and gave them an opportunity to express their Zionism.
To further enhance the initiative, our STEM teachers designed and 3D-printed special Bialik Tzedakah boxes for each of our classrooms, making the experience even more personal to the students. Every Friday, as part of our weekly Shabbat Tzedakah tradition, students brought in their coins with huge enthusiasm, filling their boxes bit by bit. Their teachers discussed with them how each donation, no matter the size, carried with it a message of unity and love for Israel, bringing us closer together as a community with a shared mission.
From this collective effort, students raised an incredible $2,000 that we have distributed to their three chosen charities: Tnu LaChayot Lichyot, an organization that works tirelessly for animal welfare; Krembo Wings that provides inclusive social activities for children with disabilities; and Schneider Children’s Medical Center of Israel, renowned for its innovative medical care.
This Tzedakah initiative has allowed our students to embody Bialik’s core values — Tzedakah, Tikkun Olam and Zionism — in a way that feels relevant and immediate. The students know they have contributed to Israel's well-being and stand in solidarity with those affected by the recent events. Our students have found a way to be a source of support, hope and positivity.
Bialik stands with Israel, unwavering in our dedication and commitment, and this initiative is a testament to our students’, and our community’s resilience, strength and unity. In every coin donated and every Tzedakah box filled, our students have shown that they are not only part of a school community but part of a global Jewish family.
This initiative is continuing and students have selected new Israeli organizations that they will be supporting.