The Federation of Jewish Communities in Ukraine (FJCU) announced on Thursday the delivery of approximately 1000 Purim packages to Jewish Ukrainian soldiers stationed on the frontlines in the conflict against Russia.
Known as mishloach manot, these traditional gift baskets are provided to enable Jews to participate in the Purim holiday feast. They were distributed to positions spanning 1,200 kilometers along the front in Donetsk, Luhansk, and Kharkiv.
Rabbi Meir Stambler of FJCU expressed their commitment, stating, “Despite the increased bombings of Ukrainian cities in recent months, we stand united for every Jew across Ukraine. Our aim is to bring them the spirit of Purim and the joy of the festival, wherever they may be. We pray that even before Purim, we can witness the Purim miracle of our generation – the miracle of freedom.”
The FJCU highlighted the challenges encountered in locating hundreds of soldiers along the front, further complicated by restrictions on civilian access to combat zones.
What treats will the troopers be having fun with?
The reward baskets included hamentashens, sweets, snacks, cookies, domestically produced vodka, and the Guide of Esther in Ukrainian.
Rabbi Yakov Siniakov, collaborating with the FJCU to support Jewish soldiers, coordinated efforts with eight volunteers to ensure all recipients were reached. Alongside fulfilling other commandments, they conducted megillah readings at various entry points.
The FJCU disclosed that megillah readings were being conducted in nearly 60 cities and towns across Ukraine. In addition to serving former soldiers, the organization distributed 40,000 Purim packages across 180 Jewish communities.
Stambler remarked, “Numerous Megillah readings are scheduled not only in cities with Chabad emissaries but also in nearby towns with sizable Jewish populations, all aimed at extending the mitzvot of Purim and spreading the joy of the festival to as many Jews as possible.”
This marks the third Purim celebration for Ukrainian Jews amidst the ongoing Russian invasion.
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