104 – Bestowing Kindness / Part II, Chapter Sixteen (a)
As discussed, there is great benefit in contributing towards a joint fund that distributes free-loans to those in need. But it should be noted that not only is there great reward for those who deposit their money into such funds, but for all those who operate the fund, those responsible for its safekeeping and those who collect the pledges will all receive immense reward, for about them it is written, One who pursues righteousness and kindness will find life, righteousness, and honor (Mishlei 21:21). Our Sages said further that if a person sinned and became liable to die at the hands of Heaven, what should he do in order to remain alive? If he was accustomed to learning one chapter of Torah, let him begin learning two chapters; and if he was not accustomed to learn, let him go and become a Tzedakah trustee and he will thereby live, as it is written, One who pursues righteousness and kindness will find life, righteousness, and honor.