A massive humanitarian aid effort is underway in FJC’s Jewish communities across the former Soviet Union ahead of this year’s Passover festival. 100 tons of matzah and thousands of food items and clothing will be distributed  to those in need throughout Russia, Ukraine, Georgia, Belarus and other FSU countries.

With inflation high and the economy struggling, this year more than before thousands of Jewish families, the elderly, Jewish refugees from Ukraine and children in distress, are in need of basic necessities, not to mention festive items and spirit.

In partnership with the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews, headed by rabbi Yechiel Eckstein, FJC will distribute 35,000 food packages and 3,500 clothing gift-certificates through communities in the FSU. Food packages include Matzah, wine and grape-juice, kosher for passover groceries, meat, fish and vegetables, and provide sustainable help to the many families in need.

The clothing gift-certificates are distributed to needy children, giving them the opportunity to purchase new quality clothes for Passover and the summer season at the Gloria Jeans franchise.

As for instilling the festive atmosphere of Passover, a holiday that throughout history symbolized freedom and hope, 100 tons of matzah and 70,000 bottles of wine and grape juice are being delivered to families in both large and remote communities across Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Georgia, Latvia and more. About 30,000 families will be hosted for community Seder meals by more than 260 communities in these countries.

“Passover is one of the highest culmination points of Jewish heritage and tradition, and we strive that every Jew in the former Soviet Union who wishes to be a part of this, will be able to do so,” David Mondshine, FJC’s CEO. He also warmly thanked rabbi Yechiel Eckstein, the president of IFCJ, for his longstanding support in the Federation’s humanitarian aid activities.