Our Projects:
Monthly Distribution
Matan B’seter Bambi distributes regular monthly stipends to 400 Israeli families who are undergoing a medical or social crisis. Amounts distributed to each family range from $100 to $1,000. Each family’s case is carefully reviewed before assistance is offered, and families are monitored for changing circumstances. Assistance is given to cover the basic necessities of life, such as food, rent, utilities, and medical care not normally covered by Kupat Cholim (Israel’s national insurance).
Sukkot/Pesach Distribution
Holidays, which should be a time of happiness, are often a source of financial stress and despair for people in need. Due to the special demands of Yom Tov, about 1,000 families receive between $100 – $500, each according to it’s need. In total, Bambi distributes about $500,000 for Pesach and Sukkot. This is in addition to Bambi’s regular monthly distributions.
Purim Distribution and Purim Cards
On Purim there is a special mitzvah to give Matanos L’Evyonim (monetary gifts to the poor). Bambi has a special Purim fundraising drive to help about 50 Israeli families in need who live outside of Jerusalem– in Beit Shemesh, Beitar, Modiin Illit, and Haifa.
Funds for this special drive are raised by the sale of unique Purim cards. These cards are a great way to show your appreciation to those closest to you. At the same time, you will be performing the mitzvah of Matanos L’evyonim by supporting families in need.
Click here to view and purchase this year’s Purim Cards.
Emergency Fund
There is a special Emergency Fund for people in dire need of money for rent or utilities, essential appliances such as refrigerators and washing machines, eyeglasses for children, hearing aids, medication or other medical expenses not paid for by Kupat Cholim. Often, Bambi does not have adequate funds to meet all these emergency needs.
Infant and Children’s Clothing Distribution
Donations of new or gently used children’s clothing enable hundreds of poor people to warm the hearts and bodies of their infants and children. Clothes are distributed to the poorest communities in Jerusalem and the outlying areas. Montreal, Denver, and many New York area communities are an integral part of this special project.
Gemachs – Free Loan Organizations
Several gemachs (free loan organizations) operate in cooperation with Matan B’Seter Bambi but have separate bank accounts. These gemachs make interest-free loans to families in need.
One of these gemachs is dedicated to education and job training. Another gemach lends money to needy families to be used for housing, to pay for weddings, and medical needs. Borrowers must provide two guarantors and a specific repayment plan.
Tefillin Fund
One of Bambi’s newest projects raises money to buy tefillin for needy Bar Mitzvah boys. Many of Bambi’s families do not have the means to purchase tefillin for their sons when they become Bar Mitzvah, as they cost $500 and up for each set. Instead, each day these boys must borrow or share other people’s tefillin in order to pray. Imagine the genuine joy of a new Bar Mitzvah boy when Bambi is able to purchase his very own pair of Tefillin that he will continue to use every day of his life!
Matan B’Seter Bambi is a 501(c3) tax-exempt charity