Welcoming Ukrainian Refugees

Project Kesher Israel is welcoming hundreds of Ukrainian refugees into their community. PKI is supporting four weekly emotional support groups as well as programs on Jewish education, women's leadership, and feminism. One recent program was a walking tour of Tel Aviv for 30 participants led by Zeev Volkov, born and raised in Odesa, and PKI Executive Director Rabbi Olya Weinstein.  

PKI has supported 160+ Ukrainian immigrants and refugees from the LGBTQ+ community. As same-sex marriage was not recognized in Ukraine, many couples are unable to register as a family while applying for immigration to Israel, causing many individuals to be unable to gain citizenship or stay in Israel with their loved ones and children. PKI and the Tel Aviv LGBTQ Center have collaborated to host weekly emotional support groups, provide legal services, and set up a hotline for those who need urgent assistance. Rabbi Olya Weinstein has recruited top attorney Nicole Maor to represent Russian-speaking LGBTQ couples -- a huge step forward for this community as they face these immense challenges.