Rebuilding Jewish Life in Ukraine

Project Kesher’s Torah Return Project has returned 36 Torah scrolls to Jewish communities, including 13 Torah scrolls to Ukraine to date. At the start of the war, synagogues did everything they could to keep the scrolls safe. Some were moved from conflict zones, others were kept in safes, and some have traveled to other countries in Europe with community members who were forced to evacuate. Jewish life in Ukraine is gradually being restored, with programs and projects starting to resume, and community members gathering for holidays. Simchat Torah celebrations were held in 6 cities across Ukraine with the support of Project Kesher Ukraine and with Torah scrolls donated as part of the Torah Return Project.

Originally, nine celebrations were planned, but PK Ukraine leaders had to cancel three due to the escalation of Russian attacks in those areas. The celebrations that moved forward united Jewish families from different parts of the country. Leaders showed the Torah to children and taught them the history of the holiday. “Kesher" in Hebrew means connection, and Jews from different generations from around Ukraine united around the Torahs donated by PK. Another Torah is ready to be delivered to a community in need in Ukraine, as soon as possible.