Chesed Group

At Sha’arei Tsedek, our Chesed Group plays a vital role in supporting the emotional and practical well-being of our community. The team offers care, compassion, and meaningful connection to members who are unwell, bereaved, isolated, or simply in need of a friendly voice.

This small group of five dedicated volunteers, together with Rabbi Shulamit Ambalu, meets every six weeks to review the support they provide, reflect on the needs of the community, and explore new ways to offer help.

Throughout the year, the Chesed Group carries out a wide range of quiet but impactful acts of kindness. These include making regular, confidential phone calls to individuals who have reached out for support, checking in with bereaved families through shloshim and the first yahrzeit, and learning from inter-synagogue networks and Jewish Care to strengthen the care they provide.

One of the highlights of the past year was the team’s effort to contact every member ahead of the High Holidays—a continuation of the much-loved tradition begun by Estelle Gilston z”l, Life President of Sha’arei Tsedek. This initiative was warmly received and helped many members feel connected, especially those who may not attend in person as often. As one member shared:

“Thank you for your Rosh Hashanah call—it gave me the confidence to come to shul today.”

The Chesed Group’s work embodies the heart of Sha’arei Tsedek: a community that shows up for one another with kindness, empathy, and genuine care.

If you would like to be involved, need support, or know of a member of the community who might need our assistance, please email us at info@shaarei-tsedek.org.uk or call us on 020 8445 3400.