As we prepare for Pesach each year, one of the most beautiful things in our community is the way we come together to support one another. While the community’s support is generous and appreciated, it’s important that we take a moment to think about how this support is presented.
By Rabbi Yosef M.
As we prepare for Pesach each year, one of the most beautiful things in our community is the way we come together to support one another. Families receive assistance, food is distributed, and no one is left behind. It’s a true reflection of Ahavas Yisroel. Among those who receive help are our teachers and school rabbis—those who guide our children, support our families, and dedicate their days and nights to the chinuch of the next generation.
While the community’s support is generous and appreciated, it’s important that we take a moment to think about how this support is presented. When teachers receive assistance before Yom Tov, the message matters. This is not help for “needy people.” This is not charity. This is hakaras hatov—a thank you, a sign of respect, and an expression of how much we value their work.
Our teachers are not people who ask for handouts. They are individuals who give of themselves endlessly—teaching, guiding, mentoring, and inspiring. Many of them work for modest salaries not because they can’t do other things, but because they believe in the mission. Because they care. And when the community supports them, it shouldn’t be framed as helping someone who “can’t manage.” It should be framed as giving back to someone who has already given so much.
The difference in language and presentation makes a world of difference. A teacher who receives a Pesach gift should not walk away feeling small, or like they’ve been added to someone’s chesed list. They should feel proud, appreciated, uplifted. That feeling comes not just from the gift itself, but from the tone with which it’s given. Words like “This is just a small thank you for all you do,” or “The community wanted to show our appreciation,” go a long way. Avoiding language that implies struggle or pity protects their dignity and highlights their value.
When we give to teachers before Pesach, we’re not filling a financial gap—we’re filling a gap in our appreciation. Let’s make sure they feel that. Let’s make sure the tone, the packaging, the message, and the delivery all say the same thing: We see you. We thank you. We honor you.
Because this isn’t charity. It’s gratitude. And that makes all the difference.
Discussion
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