Company & Culture
June 05, 2017
8 minute read

A recent survey revealed that 83% of caregivers reported that doing so was a “positive experience.” Especially when caring for ill and aging parents, caregivers said they felt a sense of meaning and purpose in being able to give back to someone who has cared for them. Some family members want their legacy to be a tradition of care; one that their children will use as a model for life. Caregiving is a stressful blessing; focusing on spiritual guidance and the rewards of caregiving is a coping mechanism.

Bikkur Cholim – It’s Your Obligation

David Arnow, Ph.D. says the commitment to visit the sick – bikkur cholim – is necessary for everyone, not just the clergy. “Indeed, the Talmud notes that visiting the sick is one of the few commandments that is rewarded both in this world and the world to come,” he writes.

Charity Should Include the Preservation of Dignity

Dignity is as essential to life as water, food, and oxygen.
-Laura Hillenbrand

“One of the central tenets of Judaism’s approach to the ill or dying is to preserve their dignity,” continues Arnow. That is the mission of Maot Chitim. Helping Jewish residents of Greater Chicago with food-related needs is the first and most important way to contribute to those less fortunate than us, but we also want to provide what is needed to observe traditional holidays. That is what gives dignity to those who feel they are living without pride.

How You Can Help

Illness respects no one and visits everyone at some time. Our charity helps Jewish neighbors regain a sense of belonging at a time when they feel isolated from the Jewish community and our ways of worship. You can help Maot Chitim aid those who are suffering from ill health and poverty to restore a sense of dignity to their lives. The most important way to give is through monetary donations, but volunteering your time is equally important! Please call or contact us for more information about how you can serve.

Your rewards are the blessings that you take with you, in this life and beyond.

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