3 weeks ago

Yeka Passover Camp Brings Together Jewish Kids from Across Ukraine

Yeka Passover Camp in Ukraine has concluded a powerful 11-day experience, uniting over 70 Jewish boys from across the country in a safe and spirited environment of Jewish pride, learning, and connection • Full Story, Photos

Held at FJC’s Or Avner Alumim Children’s Center near Zhytomyr, the camp brought the children joy, friendship, and empowerment, helping them connect to their Jewish heritage.

This year’s Passover camp was made possible through the strong partnership with the Jewish Relief Network Ukraine (JRNU), which supported the initiative on the ground, and the Jewish United Fund of Chicago, whose support was critical to allowing the camp to welcome many additional children. Their collaboration ensured not only the camp’s safety but its continued success in nurturing Jewish identity and education during such critical times.

Spearheaded by head counselor Yasha Lerner and program director Mottel Kleyman, the camp’s vision was brought to life by a team of over 20 committed staff members. These dedicated Bochurim not only gave up spending Pesach with their families to travel to Ukraine and run the program, but were also deeply involved in its preparation and fundraising. Together, they crafted a packed program filled with exciting activities, learning, and daily trips.

The camp was greatly assisted by the guidance and support of Rabbi Shlomo Wilhelm, the Chief Rabbi and head Shliach of Zhytomyr and West Ukraine, who generously hosted the program and worked tirelessly to ensure its success. The camp was also assisted by a vital and generous contribution from David Marr of Sydney, Australia, a dear friend of Chabad Bondi and the Ulman family. His continued support throughout the year has helped sustain and grow our camp sessions, making this year’s Pesach session possible.

One of the highlights of camp was the two lively Sedarim held on the first nights of Pesach. For several boys, it was their first time having a Seder, making the retelling of the Exodus and the Pesach traditions especially meaningful and memorable. Throughout the week, campers explored the meaning and message of Pesach through engaging activities, games, and lessons, with crafts from Cazenove Judaica that brought the story of redemption to life in a dynamic and personal way.

Even in the face of ongoing air raid sirens, the camp’s energy never wavered. The boys continued to sing, dance, and connect—drawing strength from the atmosphere and from each other. In moments both private and public, many campers shared with their counselors and, at times, with the entire group, how the experience made them proud to be Jewish and helped them feel more deeply connected to their Judaism.

“Rebbe, thank you for choosing me and giving me the strength to overcome difficulties. I became a soldier in the Jewish army; I want to be in Yeshiva,” was the message one camper, a 14-year-old boy from a remote village in western Ukraine, orphaned of his mother and being raised by his non-Jewish father, messaged his counselor shortly after leaving camp.

One of the most poignant moments came on the last day of Pesach, during the Yizkor memorial prayer. For several orphaned campers, it was their first time reciting the special prayer for their parents’ souls. The atmosphere was deeply moving, as the boys stood and prayed, surrounded by their supporting counselors.

As the campers return to their homes, they carry with them newfound knowledge, memories, and a stronger connection to their Yiddishkeit. The success of the Yeka Pesach Camp is a testament to the resilience and vibrancy of Jewish life in Ukraine, even amidst challenging times.

Camp Yeka is led by Rabbi Levi Berger, together with Rabbi Ari Block. To learn more about Camp Yeka, please visit www.yekaboys.com