Just before Purim this year, the children of the “Mishpacha Children’s Home” in Odessa distributed Mishloach Manot packages to local Holocaust survivors. The children, who are orphans, arrived at the “Mishpacha Senior Home” dressed in festive costumes, carrying colorful gift bags filled with hamantaschen, fruits, and gifts.
The initiative was organized by the orphanage, to reinforce the bond between generations and share joy among youngsters and the elderly:
“I saw their eyes light up when we walked in,” said David, a 12-year-old resident from the Children’s Home. “They were happy, not just for the gifts, but because we came to visit and listen to their stories.” Sofia Berkovich, a 93-year-old Auschwitz survivor, held the hand of nine-year-old Michael and said, “You are our future. When I see you, I know they did not succeed in erasing us.” Meanwhile, Yakov Goldstein, a survivor of Transnistria, was deeply moved when 10-year-old Natasha, dressed as Queen Esther, handed him her gift: “These small hands warm my old heart,” he said with emotion.
Rabbi Avraham Wolff, Chief Rabbi of Odessa and Southern Ukraine, reflected on the event: “When orphans and Holocaust survivors come together to celebrate Purim, this is the true victory of the Jewish people—the miracle of Purim in our time.” The children of Odessa proved that even in the face of great hardship, the spirit of giving and unity continues.
In Kharkiv, for the fourth time in as many years, Purim was celebrated under difficult conditions. Notwithstanding the close proximity of the ongoing war, hundreds of men, women, and children participated in the reading of the Book of Esther and enjoyed the Purim revelry.
People filled the historic synagogue that had been transformed into a Western themed “Dude Ranch,” complete with men dressed as cowboys and a “Shalom Saloon” photo booth. Every person was greeted at the door with a Mishloach Manot package filled with sweets, graggers and other treats. There were many games and activities for the young and old. The Megillah reading brought the Purim story to life, reminding everyone of the enduring strength and resilience of the Jewish people throughout history.
Rabbi Moshe Moskowitz, the city’s Chief Rabbi, delivered a powerful message of faith and perseverance: “The fact that we are able to celebrate Purim despite everything, shows that the Jewish community—and the Jewish nation—are unbreakable,” he said. “Just as in Shushan, when darkness turned to light, we too believe that this difficult time will pass, and we will soon experience redemption.”
Kharkiv’s Mayor, Ihor Terekhov, was deeply moved by the large turnout, and addressed the crowd, referencing the timeless Purim message that good will always triumph over evil. Mayor Terekhov expressed his admiration for the Jewish community’s unwavering spirit.
In both Kharkiv and Odessa, the Purim festivities were uplifting and inspiring to the members of the Jewish community who continue to endure great hardship. It is an honor and privilege for JRNU to support these meaningful and important events.
Together we save lives and restore hope.
