As tension grows in Ukraine, the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews commits $1 million to emergency fund

February 16, 2022

JERUSALEM — The International Fellowship of Christians and Jews (The Fellowship), which has been providing emergency assistance to Jews in the former Soviet Union and around the world for over 30 years, has launched a $1 million emergency aid program to assist Ukrainian Jews. Working through staff on the ground, volunteers, and trusted partners, The Fellowship is ensuring that Ukraine’s approximately 200,000 Jews have everything they need during this time of peril.

“The Fellowship has a unique relationship with Jewish communities in this region. We’ve worked here consistently for years, providing lifesaving assistance to needy families across the country,” said Yael Eckstein, President and CEO. “We care deeply for these people, and they are now facing a dangerous situation. Our Christian friends have been the staunchest supporters of Jews in need around the world, and we know they will step up and do whatever they can to help those in harm’s way. Our commitment to preserving Jewish life is never more important than when the drums of war begin to beat.

“We have been preparing for weeks in case the situation worsens, and unfortunately we are facing that challenge. So we are acting now. Thankfully, we are ready. If a conflict breaks out, we are prepared to do whatever is needed.”

The Fellowship has already advanced food and supplies to their partners for the next two months. The Fellowship has a vast network of staff and volunteers in the former Soviet Union that can continue to deliver essential aid like food, medication, and heating appliances to hundreds of thousands of people. Emergency plans for evacuations and shelters have been set in place as well, along with access to satellite telephones in the event that internet connections fail. The Fellowship is also moving forward with scheduled aliyah (immigration to Israel) flights from Ukraine.