Message from Rabbi Sholom Ber Stambler:
My name is Rabbi Sholom Ber Stambler, and for the past 21 years, I have been privileged to serve as the Rebbe’s Shliach in Warsaw, Poland. The Rebbe inspired us to help every Jew no matter the situation they find themselves in.
I turn to Klal Yisrael with an urgent Pidyon Shvuyim appeal which I have been working on for the past few months:
Two Yidden from Eretz Yisrael with families, are currently imprisoned in a local jail under very harsh conditions and are suffering immensely. I have visited both Yidden multiple times and have brought them Kosher food dozens of times. My heart goes out to them and I consider their situations a true case of Pidyon Shvuyim.
After months of effort, one of the Yidden can now finally obtain bail in the coming weeks if $55,000 USD is posted. Unfortunately, his family cannot obtain this amount on their own, so I have taken it upon myself to help raise it. If he does not post bail, he will languish in a Polish cell until his trial which could take several years.
The second Yid a former Taxi driver from Israel is in a very bitter state and has been relying on me for much-needed moral support. His wife in Israel has been hospitalized dealing with her own psychological issues. Unfortunately, he is facing a minimum of 3 years in prison and could potentially face more time without a good lawyer. We have managed to find a good lawyer and we need to pay his fees so that this Yid can hopefully receive the minimum sentence possible. The fees for this case will amount to $30,000 USD.
Throughout the years, I have helped many Yidden arrested in Poland. These cases are unique and heartbreaking. I truly believe helping these Yidden is a huge mitzvah.
As we prepare to celebrate Shavuos next week, and the giving of the Torah, I turn to everyone with an appeal to fulfill what the Rambam describes as the greatest mitzvah: Pidyon Shvuyim.
May you and your loved ones be blessed to receive the Torah with joy and internalize it.
Rabbi Stambler,
Chabad of Warsaw.
