Dnepropetrovsk, Ukraine – In Dnepropetrovsk, the ‘Golden Rose’ Synagogue has introduced an innovative idea aimed at promoting the mitzvah of giving Tzedaka or Charity. In its entrance hall now stands an automated machine, which enables congregants and visitors to donate funds for charitable purposes by transferring funds from their credit or debit cards to the Jewish community of Dnepropetrovsk – a member of the Federation of Jewish Communities of Ukraine.
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While tzedaka collection boxes are a familiar site in Synagogues, this technology takes advantage of the fact that people tend to use such machines more frequently and to carry little cash with them. Now such visitors will be able to make a contribution to community programs, thanks to support from the major Ukrainian bank ‘Privatbank’. Accordingly called the ‘Tzdakamat’, this pioneering machine operates similar to regular ABMs but with the added advantage of being tailored especially to the community’s needs. For instance, one may insert his bank card, choose a community program or project, indicate the appropriate sum, the funds are transferred, after which one receives a thank you message and receipt.
The ‘Tzdakamat’ also takes cash, which may be deposited directly into the machine, though so far it only receives donations in Ukraine’s currency – the Grivna. “Today plastic cards are widely used by pensioners, students, housewives and business persons alike,” commented Vladimir Gershengorn, a congregant of the ‘Golden Rose’ Synagogue. “Now it is no longer necessary to withdraw cash from a separate ABM to make a donation.” Community Director Vyacheslav Brez noted that such devices may soon be active in other institutions operated by the Jewish community of Dnepropetrovsk. [fjc]
yes, it is the Rebbe in his younger years.
i think its a great idea and should be adopted over here.
it will reduce theft in the shuls
Is that the Rebbe shlita in the picture in the background watching over the machine ??