Benevolent organizations — Association of Jews of Vilna and vicinity in Israel

Benevolent organizations dispensed charity to impecunious Jews; at that time the Jews of Vilna were very needy and very poor.

What led to the establishment of the benevolent organizations was the sight of children sitting in the streets together with mothers with babes in arms begging for money. Beggars would sing or play an instrument in the street to attract the attention of the passers-by.

Care for the elderly

Hospitality for visitors

Aid for poor children

Evening classes for working youth

Aid for poor new mothers

Outfitting brides

Loans and Savings funds

Food packages

Medical Aid

Housing

Assistance in vocational training and job placements

Assistance for disabled Jewish war veterans

The fight against mendicants

Assistance for the handicapped

Comforting Mourners

source: Amalnet, Beit Terezin