Baltimore, Md - Jan. 16, 2018 - Reposted upon request:

Rabbinical Council of Greater Baltimore

ועד הרבנים ד‘באלטימאר

ב׳ אדר תשע״ז

February 28, 2017

Dear Members of the Baltimore Jewish Community:

The mitzvah of lending money is well known to all of us and is indeed a great act of Gemilas Chassadim.

It has come to our attention that some individuals in our community have been borrowing large sums of money from members of our community but, unfortunately, in many instances, have not repaid the loans when due.

We are therefore advising each member of our community to speak to his or her Rav before lending money.

We also remind everyone of the halacha, that every loan be documented in a dated and signed promissory note or other clear document setting forth the terms of the loan. Furthermore, it is advisable, when relevant, that both the borrower and the borrower’s spouse sign the document.

We encourage members of our community who are able to lend money, to continue performing the mitzvah of lending money to those who need such assistance and to continue performing other acts of tzedaka and chesed to the greatest extent possible.

In this zchus may we merit the coming of Moshiach speedily in our days.

The Vaad Harabanim of Baltimore