Zhitomir, Ukraine – Jewish prisoners in 17 correctional facilities in Western Ukraine were able to celebrate Passover Seders thanks to the efforts of the Federation of Small Jewish Communities of Western Ukraine.

Over 50 inmates in Kiev, as well as the Zhitomir, Vinnitsa, Ternopol, Lvov and Rovno regions, received a Passover “care package” containing food and drinks for the Seders.

In addition to regular matzah, the package also contained the special hand-made “Shmura” matzah for use at the Seders. There was also grape juice, kosher for Passover tea, sugar, and even one-time-use cups, included to assure that the Seder would be “kosher for Passover.” A Passover Hagadah as well as a brochure explaining about the holiday were also included.

Rabbi Nochum Tamarin, organizer of the project, thanked the individuals who made it possible to bring the spirit and joy of Passover even to those Jews in isolated conditions and remote locations in Western Ukraine.

The Federation of Small Communities of Western Ukraine is affiliated with the Federation of Jewish Communities of Ukraine. The organization reaches out to Jews in prison learn more about Judaism and helps them maintain their dignity.

(Source: FJC)