The Jack Weinbaum Tefillin Bank
Some 15 years ago Mr. Jack Weinbaum graciously offered to partner with each individual who would commit to embrace the fundamental Mitzva of Teffilin on a daily basis. Indeed, with the entry point for a quality pair of Tefillin beyond reach for some, a program of this nature is certainly of merit.
Reb Yaakov, was born in 1921 in Koszyce, Poland. He came from a large family with eight brothers and sisters, but was the only one to survive. During the war, Jack was sent to a series of ghettos, and then labour camps, including Mathausen. In 1945, he was liberated from Melk, Austria. He met his wife, Anne in a displaced persons camp in Germany and they came to Canada in 1948.
Upon arrival, Jack got a job in the garment district of Toronto making sweaters. In the 50s, with a leap of faith he entered the real estate business, first buying and selling properties, then developing and building residential apartment buildings and condominiums. He supported many charities, especially, Jewish education, and the Land of Israel, still he had a notable affinity for the mitzvah of Gemilat Chesed (interest free loan). When asked, why, he responded, “my entry to real estate development was made possible by a Gemilat Chesed! Jack and Anne have two children and five grandchildren.
Jack Passed away December 5, 2014, Kislav 13, 5775, his wife Anne who shared her husband’s passion for philanthropy passed away November 25, 2020, Kislev 9, 5781
Being cognizant of the Talmudic dictum “A doctor for a penny is worth a penny,” the applicant is asked to participate in half of the cost. Naturally under special circumstances payment plans are also considered. Since its inception, over 232 individuals have availed themselves to this most meaningful gesture. They may be a university student, an immigrant, or a person with a limited income.
The Tefillin Campaign was launched 50 years ago by the Lubavitcher Rebbe of blessed memory in 1967. During the trying days before the Six Day War the Rebbe urge Jews the world over to embrace the mitzva of Tefillin. He quoted the biblical verse, “And the Nations will see the name of G‑d on you,” which the Talmudic sage, Rabbi Rabbi Eliezer, explains is a reference to Tefillin. The said verse concludes, "And they will be overcome with fear." Hence, in times of need the mitzvah of Tefillin is of added importance and helps secure our beloved land of Israel. The Rebbe’s call has been the impetus for tens of thousands to begin observing this mitzvah on a daily basis. Indeed, most of the recipients of the Jack Weinbaum Tefillin Bank had their first Tefillin encounter with a Chabad volunteer as a result of the Rebbe’s initiative.