With just over a week until Passover, the Jewish communities in Ukraine are making final preparations for the holiday.
Trucks loaded with hand-baked matzah produced in Israel, wine, poultry, and dairy products are crossing the country as part of our yearly project to bring Passover to Ukraine. From major cities to remote villages, we will deliver more than 50,000 special aid packages containing 100 tons of kosher-for-Passover food. And, we will host large public Seders in many cities, where thousands of Jews will come together to celebrate our Exodus from Egypt. For the fourth year in a row, despite significant challenges associated with the ongoing crisis, we will ensure that this important holiday commemorating the birth of our nation is a time of joy for the Jews of Ukraine.
Rabbi Avraham Wolff, Chief Rabbi of Odessa and Southern Ukraine, describes the extensive plans underway in his community: "There will be Seders at the central synagogue and additional ones in various parts of the city," he says. "Additionally, we will host a Seder for kindergarten children, another for school children, two more at the orphanage, and two Seders for students." The city is preparing for dozens of events tailored for all age groups, from preschoolers to university students.
In the northern city of Chernivtsi, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Glitzenshtein has also been busy: "As always, we are committed to making sure that every community member has everything they need for Passover. Additionally, we are preparing for the main community Seder, which will host hundreds of Jews. Over the years, the Seder has become one of the most significant community events, with nearly 500 participants."
In Kyiv, Rabbi Simcha Levenharts describes the plans for his community: "We rent a hotel for the holiday period so that those who wish to fully observe the holiday can do so. Additionally, we ensure that every Jew receives matzah and grape juice for Passover."
All of our efforts are made possible thanks to the immense dedication of our partners and donors from across the globe—caring families, individuals, and foundations who continue to show support and solidarity for the Jews of Ukraine and ensure that no Jew is left behind.
