Tzedakah WhatsApp Group

The Bergen County Tzedakah WhatsApp Group has become one of the most powerful engines of Chesed in the community—over 700 members coming together to respond to urgent needs in mere minutes. Started by Ari Ashkenas and Simmy Friedman, the group grew from their shared vision: to bring to Bergen County the kind of transformative, rapid-response Tzedakah efforts they had seen succeed in other communities. Each followed a different path, but both were guided to Project Ezrah, which served as the “shadchan,” bringing their ideas together and enabling this initiative to take root.

Every few weeks, a new need is posted—always a neighbor, always a real story. These are families facing challenges that are sometimes larger, more urgent, or more complex than what Project Ezrah typically assists with alone. Before a request is shared, each family meets with Project Ezrah, ensuring the need is real, the plan is responsible, and the support will continue long after the funds are raised.

The stories shared in the WhatsApp group offer a rare and honest glimpse behind the curtain of communal life: families navigating medical crises, parents suddenly unemployed, seniors living on fixed incomes facing overwhelming home repairs, and individuals working tirelessly yet still struggling to stay afloat. Each story becomes a moment of connection—reminding the community of the unseen challenges around them and the extraordinary power of responding together.

The partnership between the group and Project Ezrah has created countless stories that strengthen us: stories of compassion delivered instantly, burdens eased collectively, and neighbors lifting neighbors with dignity, speed, and unity. The Tzedakah WhatsApp Group stands as a testament to what a community can achieve when hundreds of hearts respond as one.