Jun 20, 2024

Celebrating Shavuot in Ukraine

“Even in these dark times, Beit Dan creates a completely different, happy and meaningful life for our kids and for all of us,” said one parent at the Beit Dan JCC in Kharkiv, Ukraine, as preparations were underway for last week’s Shavuot celebration. The JCC, supported by Federation partner the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) and the Annual Federation/UJA Campaign, helped the Kharkiv Jewish community mark the holiday with Israeli dancing, outdoor games, cooking classes and more. Preschoolers learned about the history of Shavuot and even received a holiday-themed PJ Library book to take home. Kharkiv is the country’s second largest city and has been particularly hard-hit by the ongoing conflict. Since hostilities began in February 2022, Beit Dan has remained a vital source of lifesaving care and humanitarian aid that includes food and psychological support for Kharkiv’s most vulnerable Jews. The Beit Dan team has worked hard to maintain JCC activities and involvement, moving programs online when necessary, to keep the Jewish community engaged and connected. “Here, we are united by our common values and interests,” affirmed the JCC parent, adding “Here is our Jewish home!”