About Us

Founded with Vision, Powered by Compassion

ROFEH International is the enduring legacy of the Bostoner Rebbe, Grand Rabbi Levi Yitzchak Horowitz, of blessed memory. A visionary, the Rebbe dedicated his life to nurturing the spiritual, physical, and emotional well-being of others.

The focus of ROFEH is three-fold: to help people navigate the healthcare system via our comprehensive medical referral network, to provide support and services for patients and families during their medical care in Boston, and to serve as an intermediary for connecting caring members of the greater Boston community with people and opportunities for which their help is needed.

One Kind Act

In 1952 the Bostoner Rebbe was introduced to a man in desperate need of specialized cardiac care. Situated in the thriving medical hub of Boston, the Rebbe found himself in the perfect position to assist. He connected the patient to an expert cardiologist and cared for the patient in his own home as he recovered.

This encounter revealed an untapped potential for service, leading to the creation of ROFEH International. ROFEH stands for Reaching Out Furnishing Emergency Healthcare; it is also the Hebrew word for healing. Today, we carry forward the mission of providing medical referrals, support services, and compassionate care for the sick and their families.

What ROFEH Does

ROFEH International bridges the gap between healthcare institutions and patients seeking specialized medical services in Boston. 

However, our work doesn’t stop at providing medical referrals. We act as a support system to patients, ensuring they and their family’s physical, emotional, and spiritual needs are met with warmth, dignity, and respect. ROFEH offers comprehensive services, including kosher meals, housing, and social services, all at no cost to the patients and families. 

ROFEH understands the strain and vulnerability of leaving the comfort of your home for lifesaving medical treatment. We aim to alleviate these pressures and make Boston’s prestigious medical centers accessible and welcoming to all.

See our full range of services

Frequently Asked Questions

Facilities & Accessibility

Do you provide housing for families or just patients?

ROFEH has 8+ apartments for patients and their families to use while they are in town for treatment.  We understand that serving families is a critical part of serving patients, and we make it a priority.  For detailed information on these accommodations, see our Services page.

Does ROFEH have an elevator?

ROFEH does not yet have an elevator, but we do have one wheelchair-accessible apartment, along with another ground-floor apartment.

Can I park my car at ROFEH?

There is limited parking in the lots near the ROFEH lodgings.  Detailed parking information will be provided to guests upon arrival. 

Contact the ROFEH office for details if you have a valid Handicapped Parking placard or plates.

Can I stay close to the hospital for Shabbos? What are my options?

The ROFEH guest housing is a 45-minute walk from the Longwood Medical Center (NO ERUV). If you wish to stay closer for Shabbos, we have a list of contacts that we can help facilitate.  For more information and to explore your options, contact our office.

Are there Minyanim near the hospital?

There are two Shabbos minyanim nearby:

  • Young Israel of Brookline.  62 Green St.  www.yibrookline.org.  (appx. 20 minute walk)

  • The Chai Center – Rabbi Mayshe Schwartz.  105 St Paul St.  www.getchai.com.  (appx. 18 minute walk)

Are there Kosher facilities in any of the area hospitals?

ROFEH currently maintains Kosher Spaces at the following local hospitals:

  • BCH – Level 1. Bader

  • BIDMC – 2nd floor. ST-206 (near the cafeteria)

For more information on these kosher options, click HERE.

Services & Costs

Does ROFEH International fund medical treatment and pay for insurance?

ROFEH International does not assist with the cost of flight travel, insurance, or cost of treatment. Our aide is humanitarian: medical referrals, kosher food in hospitals, short-term medical lodging, patient care respite, visitors, and volunteer drivers to Boston area hospitals when possible.

How much do ROFEH services cost?

There are no costs to patients or families for ROFEH services. ROFEH is entirely run through the generosity of our donors and volunteers. 

Getting Involved

How can I support the work of ROFEH International?

There are many ways to support our mission. You can make a donation, become a volunteer, or share our work within your networks. Your support helps us continue to bring joy and hope to those facing some of the toughest times in their lives.

How can I become a volunteer at ROFEH International?

We greatly appreciate anyone willing to offer their time and skills to support patients and their families. Visit our Volunteer Page to learn more about the opportunities available and how to get involved.