Expert: Ukraine’s Jews safe but wary
Hundreds listen in to Federation-sponsored update on crisis
Nearly 700 people took part in a Tele-Town Hall meant to update the local Jewish community on events in Ukraine and the impact of the current crisis there on Odessa and Cherkassy, partner communities of the Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest NJ.
The interactive conversation featured Mark Levin, executive director of the National Conference Supporting Jews in Russia, Ukraine, the Baltic States & Eurasia. Levin assured participants that the Jewish community hasn’t experienced any increased anti-Semitism, although overseas partners on the ground remain watchful. Levin added that the the Jewish community is safe but that, as the fluid situation keeps evolving, concern remains high.
The call was moderated by Leslie Dannin Rosenthal, UJA Campaign chair.
At the onset of the crisis – one week before Russia stage-managed the absorption of Crimea into the Russian Federation – Greater MetroWest sent $20,000 to the Tikva Children’s Home in Odessa for food, fuel, increased security and other essentials, and $5,000 to Cherkassy. Another $25,000 from the UJA Annual Campaign has been set aside to provide assistance to the partner communities as needs are identified.
The support is being made possible by the gifts made by members of the Greater MetroWest to the Annual UJA Campaign.
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