Computer Gemach

This is a guest post by Shmuel Meyer. Please take a few moments to read about his wonderful computer gemach service! You can reach Shmuel at shmuel@meyer-services.com, or call him at 02-5862017. -Ester

The Computer Gemach
I have been an independent computer consultant since 1987. Over 15 years ago, I saw that my clients didn't have what to do with their used computers after they upgraded. I started to gather used systems and parts and put together working computers.

These refurbished computers are then donated to needy individuals and organizations. This includes people who are trying to get on their feet financially, sick children and various charity organizations.

The gemach (Hebrew for "acts of kindness") is just a one man operation. It is not a registered charity. That simply costs too much. I have been funding everything from my own pocket with very little help until now. 

However, I cannot continue alone. I need your help.

There is a need for what I am doing. People are always asking for help. There is no
bureaucracy here. People explain their situation and I try to help.

A side benefit is that it helps the ecology by keeping computers out of landfills.

I am seeking funds mainly to pay the rent on the small work and storage space that I use.

I am also trying to add 3 new projects to the gemach:
1) A lending library of computer books.
2) A lending library of software to learn computer related topics.
3) Lending of laptops for hospitalized people.

I have made appeals in the past. I usually get offers of a couple of computers. Sometimes the donor actual gives me the computer. But usually even that falls through...

You can find out all about my gemach on my website. Please check it out! In addition, I have created a fundraising campaign on Indiegogo. Please take a look at it and help out!


If you have any questions or need any further information, please
be in touch.

Shmuel Meyer
shmuel@meyer-services.com 
02-5862017

Holiday Budgeting

It's less than 2.5 months till Pesach. I know that Pesach always costs more money than a regular week. We eat differently, and buy matzah (which is expensive) and use lots of wine, grape juice, and even some exotic items. And before Pesach, comes Purim, and I need to make room in the budget for Mishloach Manot, Seudat Purim, and most importantly, Matanot L'evyonim.

So since I know that Purim takes a bit of a bite (I like to splurge a bit for the Seudah, and I like to be as generous as I can with Matanot L'Evyonim), and the week of Pesach usually costs me at least twice as much as a regular week, I think it's time to do a little bit of cutting back so there is room in the budget. (You can check out my article on Joy of Kosher about this, too!)

Lucky for me, I have a freezer full of I don't know what. My kids hate surprise freezer food, but if I plan this far in advance, we only have to use a little bit each week!

My goal is to cut my grocery spending by at least 15% this month. If last month I spent 2100 shekels, this month I want to spend less than 1800 shekels.

It should be doable. Who else is in?