The war has been particularly hard for older Ukrainians, many of whom lived through WWII or were born during that time and have endured difficult lives. With meager government pensions, most rely on family members and charity for food and other necessities; even prior to the war their situation was precarious. Nearly ½ of Ukrainian families live with an elderly relative.
Despite the dangers posed by the war, many older Ukrainians are reluctant to leave their homes. Villagers converted their cellars to shelters, stock up on firewood and collect rain water. Those who were forced to relocate inside Ukraine often found the temporary accommodations not suitable for their disabilities, and they have difficulty getting around.
Medical and mental health issues are particularly acute among the elderly population. Fear, loss and isolation combined with food shortages that interfere with proper diets pose special difficulties for individuals with sight and hearing loss, limited mobility, hypertension and diabetes. The Babushkas are suffering, we are doing all we can to help!
JRNU continues to take extra precautions to assist and support the elderly members of the community. Deliveries of firewood, food and medicine; arrangements and transport for medical and mental health appointments; providing heaters and replacing boilers; and much more! Our leaders, staff and volunteers take a holistic approach to the needs of the older and infirm members of the community. With the upcoming Passover holiday, special care will be taken to ensure each and every person is able to partake in a Seder and share a taste of freedom.
