As we reflect on the second anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, we look back on the work of the Jewish Federations of North America and our partners on the ground to ensure that Ukraine’s most vulnerable Jews receive the help they need to survive.
On February 24th, Ukraine’s Jews will mark two years of crisis. Two years of bombing, destruction, and pain. February 24th will also mark two years of people reaching out to help Ukraine’s Jews endure the unbearable. This report lays out what you have helped us accomplish thus far and the work that is still needed in the year ahead.
As you read this, Ukraine’s Jews are sitting through their third freezing winter — bitter wind rushing through bombed-out windows, the constant threat of blackouts and heating prices that no one can afford. Prices are rising, and both physical and emotional resources are dwindling. Children are facing yet another year without regular schooling, families are struggling, and trauma is everywhere.
JDC has been there since day one. With your support, we launched an immediate response to the crisis, and adapted it as the conflict barreled on and needs evolved. Powered by your generosity, we brought food, medicine, and winter aid to Ukraine’s Jews. We evacuated people that wished to leave and helped refugees acclimate to their new homes. We provided — and continue to provide — emotional and physical assistance to the tens of thousands of Jews who remain in Ukraine.
As the second anniversary of the crisis approaches, the conflict is as intense as ever. Recent weeks have seen severe bombing in Odesa, Kyiv, and Dnipro. JDC staff often come to work in bullet proof vests. Destruction is everywhere. While Ukraine’s Jews remain strong, the conflict is taking a toll. More than ever, they need to know they are not forgotten. With your help, we will continue to stand with and assist the Ukrainian Jewish community in the coming year.
Read the full JDC Report and continue to support the most vulnerable in Ukraine.