Avira,
how many times I need to clarify my question: which acharonim allow using non-Jewish support system for poor people in order to learn – and not just for one person but for whole groups.
As to indeed allowed taking of tzedoka, could you quote in more detail – is it for those of exceptional learning or for anyone; is it for those who can easily support themselves.
I really, really have no questions about self-sustaining learning communities, where some people support others who are learning. This may not be as ideal as having everyone learn and earn a little to sustain themselves, the way Chofetz Chaim did, but quite reasonable. Do we have communities like that? I don’t think it is difficult. A small town of Volozhin was able to sustain 400 students by eating days, without asking Czar for funding.