UIA supporting young Ukrainian refugees with no family in Israel this Kol Nidre
The Russian invasion of Ukraine prompted millions of people to flee eastern Europe, not only Ukraine. Over 30,000 olim have already arrived in Israel from Ukraine, Russia and other former Soviet Union countries. In many cases, children have arrived alone without any family support.
Families have been torn apart, with husbands and fathers remaining behind.This year’s Kol Nidre appeal will address the immediate needs of young Ukrainian refugees who arrived alone in Israel and are in desperate need of both physical and emotional support. Keren Hayesod-UIA (KH-UIA) is providing this support through the Na’aleh project at the Ramat Hadassah Youth Village.
The vital work that KH-UIA undertakes daily, together with our strategic partner, The Jewish Agency for Israel, ensures these children are cared for, nurtured and integrated into Israeli society.
The past few months have been beyond traumatic for these children who are anxious and fear about the safety of their families in Ukraine. Whilst the youth village provides them physical safety, their emotional well-being also needs to be taken care of.
A dedicated team of professionals, comprising educators, social workers, psychologists, counsellors and residential staff, work closely with these children to ensure that their emotional and academic development does not suffer.
Hayley Southwick, UIA Victoria President, said, “UIA continues to be at the forefront of answering the immediate needs of the People of Israel. This was evident as we mobilised as a global family to assist in the rescue of Jews from Ukraine. Now, our focus is on absorbing those olim. Our Kol Nidre appeal gives our community the opportunity to help rebuild the lives of those who have been severely traumatised. We are proud that the vital funds raised for the Na’aleh project will provide these children with the tools needed for their emotional, social and academic development.”
UIA Victoria CEO Jeff Feldman also added, “We thank our Rabbis and shule presidents for their support and endorsement of this appeal. One of Judaism’s fundamental principles is that kol Yisrael arevim zeh bazeh – all Israelites are responsible for one another. Our Kol Nidre appeal has a long and established history and we hope that you will once again embrace it and support it wholeheartedly.”
You can also send an e-card prior to the chagim, which will support this appeal. Consider sending an e-card to your loved ones in lieu of gifts or flowers.
The Kol Nidre appeal launches on Monday, 12 September and runs until after Simchat Torah. All donations are tax-deductible and can be made online.
For more information or to make a donation visit kn.uiavic.org/22 or call 9272 5533 or send an e-card via donatenow.uiavic.org/ecard
