BJH: Can you tell us about your background and how you came to Baltimore?
Rabbi Boruch Brull: I’m originally from Boro Park. My educational journey took me through several prestigious yeshivos, including Mesivta Torah Vodaath, Mesivta of Long Beach, and Beth Medrash Govoha. In 1978, I came to Baltimore to become a Rebbe in TA, which was partly motivated by my wife’s connection to the city. I started teaching morning and afternoon classes, which was typical for educators at TA at that time.
BJH: How did Ahavas Yisrael begin?
RBB: The organization started quite humbly. After living in Baltimore for a few months, I recognized a significant need in the community for a tzedakah fund. I partnered with Rabbi Elozor Isbee Z”L to create a support system for people in need. We began with just a few food boxes and small checks, gradually expanding our services. After about a year, we collaborated with Eli Schlossberg to broaden our impact.
BJH: What are the primary ways Ahavas Yisrael supports the community?
RBB: Our support is comprehensive and multifaceted. We provide:
- Food packages and grocery store certificates
- Financial assistance for utility bills
- Mortgage and rent payment support
- Emergency financial help
- Budgeting assistance
- Job placement services
- Government program navigation
BJH: How do you maintain dignity when helping people?
RBB: Discretion is our absolute priority. When we meet a family, our first approach is always, “How can we better help you?” We never want anyone to feel embarrassed or uncomfortable. Our goal is to provide support that feels supportive, not demeaning.
BJH: Can you describe how Ahavas Yisrael has evolved over the years?
RBB: We’ve transformed from a small initiative to a full-time professional organization. Now we have:
- A dedicated office
- Professional case managers
- A full-time job placement specialist
- Staff members focused on accessing government programs
- Extensive networks with local businesses, medical professionals, and educational institutions
BJH: What makes Baltimore’s Jewish community unique?
RBB: Baltimore has an extraordinary spirit of collaboration. The rabbis, organizations, and even local politicians work together seamlessly. There’s a remarkable sense of chesed and achdus that you won’t find in many other cities. Every sector of the community is committed to supporting one another.
BJH: Can you share a memorable moment from your years of service?
RBB: One particularly touching story happened years ago right before our Pesach Seder. A needy member of our community who we had already provided with funds for Yom Tov, came to our door, needing last-minute assistance with food for his family’s Seder plate. My wife immediately shared our food with him, ensuring that his family could have a proper Seder. After he left, we felt that we could really sit down at our own seder knowing we just may have helped that one last person we might have missed!
BJH: How does Ahavas Yisrael approach Yom Tov support, especially during Pesach?
RBB: Pesach is incredibly expensive for many families. This year, we sent out 500 checks to families, distributed through various channels to maintain discretion. We work with local rabbis to identify families in need, provide food packages, and offer financial support to ensure everyone can celebrate Yom Tov with dignity.
BJH: What inspired you to dedicate your life to community service?
RBB: My wife and I were brought up in homes of chesed, with our parents as our role models, and we decided we wanted to set up our own home with that same foundation. I have always been deeply influenced by Rabbonim and their care and concern for the klal. Many years ago, at a Ahavas Yisrael board meeting at our home to discuss how to help individuals and families, Rabbi Hopfer Shlit”a, who was at the meeting, taught us about empathy and understanding. Although everyone at the meeting was eating the food on the table, Rabbi Hopfer chose not to eat. He later explained that he wanted to feel hungry while making decisions about community support. That lesson has guided my entire approach to chesed.
BJH: How can community members help support organizations like Ahavas Yisrael?
RBB: There are multiple ways to help:
- Financial donations
- Connecting people to resources
- Spreading awareness about available support
- Participating in community fundraising events
- Offering professional skills or services
BJH: What challenges does the community face today?
RBB: Rising costs are a significant challenge. Electricity, food, and basic living expenses have increased dramatically. Many families are struggling to make ends meet, which is why organizations like Ahavas Yisrael are more critical than ever.
BJH: What keeps you motivated after decades of community service?
RBB: The incredible resilience and generosity of the Baltimore community. Seeing people come together, support each other, and lift each other up during challenging times is profoundly inspiring. Every time we help a family, every time we see someone get back on their feet, it reaffirms our mission.
BJH: Any final message for the community?
RBB: We’re here to help. No one should ever feel alone or ashamed to seek support. Our community is strong because we take care of each other. Whether it’s through Ahavas Yisrael or other organizations, there are always resources and people ready to help.
