The Benjamins Foundation · For our children and our children's children
The Benjamins Foundation
A tradition of dignified giving

The Family's Commitment

The Benjamins Foundation embraces timeless principles of dignified giving, placing opportunity and self-sufficiency before dependence.

Charity is a central principle in Judaism, with deep roots in biblical teaching. The act of Giving, while noble, is also conditional. This was the view of one of Judaism's greatest rabbinic philosophers, Moses ben Maimon, also known as Maimonides, who was born in Spain in the 12th century.

In one of his most important works, the Mishneh Torah (a comprehensive guide to Jewish law), Maimonides argued that there are Eight Degrees of Giving; essentially eight categories defined by different ethical dimensions. He believed this would lead people to more respectful forms of giving that prioritised the dignity of those in need.

The highest form of charity (Tzedakah in Hebrew) is helping a person before they become impoverished. This is done in several ways; among them is to help them find employment or establish themselves in business so they are less inclined to become dependent on others.

The family is not seeking funding from any other source, be it government, industry or individual donations. It will, however, work collaboratively with other agencies where interests align and where its support will enhance existing programs.

"The highest form of charity is helping a person before they become impoverished."

- Maimonides, Mishneh Torah

01 Maimonides' eight degrees of giving
08 Highest

Helping a person become self-sufficient

A gift, loan, or partnership that enables someone to stand on their own before need arises.

  1. 07

    Giving anonymously to an unknown recipient

  2. 06

    Giving anonymously to a known recipient

  3. 05

    Giving openly to an unknown recipient

  4. 04

    Giving openly to a known recipient

  5. 03

    Giving after being asked

  6. 02

    Giving willingly but inadequately

  7. 01

    Giving unwillinglyLowest

A guiding principle

This is a guiding principle of The Benjamins Foundation.

In practice

Dignity before dependence.

Programs supported by The Benjamins Foundation aim to create pathways to independence - through education, employment, and economic empowerment - rather than short-term relief alone. See our giving priorities →
Dignity before dependence.