Leonid (78) and Nadejda (75), longtime residents of the Jewish community in Mykolaiv, lost their son several years ago; he had been the editor of the local newspaper. When the war broke out, their daughter-in-law took her mother and daughter to Israel to begin a new life. The elderly couple were alone in Ukraine when Leonid had to undergo surgery. While recovering from the operation, Leonid and his wife needed assistance with food, medicine and daily living activities. JRNU staff and volunteers provided a great deal of support and encouragement during this difficult time, which was very much appreciated, But, most of all, Leonid appreciates his wife, whose name means "hope" in Russian: "I'm alive as long as Nadejda (Hope) lives with me."
As a result of the war, Yuliana (16) and Veronika (7) were forced to flee from their home in Charkiv, leaving behind their friends and belongings. They settled temporarily in Sumy, and JRNU has been providing support of all types including food, clothing and more. Little Veronika was so excited after trying on her new clothes and tasting the food, she exclaimed: "Mommy, I almost forgot there is war going on!”
Each and every day the staff and volunteers of JRNU work hard to provide the people of Ukraine with aid and support, hoping to create moments like Veronika's when they forget, even for a short while, that war is all around them.
With your help we continue to save lives and restore hope for the people of Ukraine, young and old.
