Shalom,

Before World War II, there was a prominent family in Eastern Europe known for its extraordinary generosity. Whenever a poor person came to their town, the father would write a substantial check according to the person’s needs, while preserving their dignity in the process.

Years later, after the devastation of the war and a difficult resettlement in America, the family fell on hard times. One day, the son said to his father, “Dad, you gave away so much of our money back then. Don’t you ever wish you had kept more of it for ourselves?”

The father replied, “Those checks are all that we truly have… The only money you really ‘have’ is the money you give away.”

The wisdom of that moment echoes one of Judaism’s deepest truths: What we share does not leave us poorer — it becomes the part of our life that endures, enriches, and defines us.

Here in our Conejo community, there are families who are struggling quietly. People who never imagined they would need help are suddenly choosing between groceries and rent, utility bills and medication. Many feel defeated, anxious, or alone — and the hardest part is not the financial burden, but the loss of dignity that accompanies it.

Through Chabad’s People in Need program, we strive to restore that dignity. We provide food cards, rental assistance, emergency aid, clothing, holiday meals, and emotional support — always discreetly, always respectfully, always with a sensitive ear and an open heart.

To sustain this program, we are once again holding our Annual Raffle Drive, featuring more than 20 wonderful prizes — including an Airbnb getaway, Dodger tickets, elegant jewelry, Judaica, fine dining, and collectible artwork.

By entering this raffle, you are not merely contributing to a cause; you are restoring a person’s sense of worth — allowing them to stand a little taller, breathe a little easier, and feel once again that they matter. And in the spirit of that father’s timeless words, your generosity becomes something everlasting — a treasure no circumstance can ever take from you.

We encourage you to participate by purchasing as many tickets as you can. Please use the enclosed promotional ticket or visit ChabadConejo.com/raffle.

With heartfelt gratitude, and blessings of good fortune to you and your family…