In the midst of the devastating storm sweeping through Ukraine, the ‘Mishpacha’ Jewish orphanage in Odessa stands as a beacon of hope for many children whose lives have been shattered by war. For the past two and a half years, a dedicated team of educators and caregivers has been tirelessly working to provide a warm home, food, education, and emotional support to 120 children who have lost everything.
“The war has changed everything,” shares Rabbi Avraham Wolff, Chief Rabbi of Odessa and Chabad Shliach. “Our children have faced severe trauma, but we are determined to give them as normal a childhood as possible. It’s a challenging mission, but a vital one.”
This Jewish orphanage, which has been in operation for over 20 years, is now facing unprecedented challenges. The ongoing war has strained already limited resources, and skyrocketing food and fuel prices are making daily operations even more difficult.
As Rosh Hashanah approaches, the orphans are turning to the global Jewish community for help. “The month of Elul is a special time for charity,” Rabbi Wolff reminds us. “Every donation, big or small, can make a huge difference in the lives of our children.”
Your contributions can help in a variety of ways: from providing holiday clothing for the children, to funding festive meals, to covering rent and fuel costs for generators. In addition, there is an urgent need for funds to support medical and psychological care for children who have experienced the horrors of war.
The orphanage is grappling with numerous challenges that the war has brought, especially those affecting the difficult situation in Odessa. Due to the frequent Russian attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure, there’s also an immediate need to purchase a new generator, which will provide the Jewish children with more livable conditions.
“Each child here is a world unto themselves,” says one of the caregivers. “To see their smiles, despite everything they’ve been through, is simply heartwarming. We’re doing everything we can, but we need your help to continue.”
As the war in Ukraine drags on with no end in sight, the team at ‘Mishpacha’ remains steadfast in their crucial mission. They hope their call for help will be answered, enabling them to continue providing a home, hope, and a future to these unfortunate children who have lost everything.
Make a difference today. Donate now and help us give these children the future they deserve.
They could have real families here!
If these children are up for adoption it would he a big mitzva for familes able to adopt. Even if you already have children, these children are pure neshamos! Maybe ur shlichus is not a chabad house but to help a neshama or 2?