As the events in Ukraine continues to unfold with growing uncertainty, the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) is continuing its emergency response on the ground to ensure the well-being and expedient care of its most vulnerable clients.

‘Even as we mourn the loss of life in Ukraine and track ongoing changes throughout the country, we are ensuring emergency services for those in our care and the uninterrupted flow of critical supplies at this challenging time,’ said JDC CEO Alan H. Gill. ‘For 100 years we have been there for Jews in need -; during war, famine, and strife -; and we are upholding that legacy today in Ukraine with the support of our global partners.’

In the immediate areas of unrest in Kiev, JDC is ensuring that its elderly clients receive services at home so they do not have to risk their lives to get basic necessities. JDC staff and Jewish community volunteers have been providing urgent food packages to homebound individuals located in the hard-hit parts of the city. The organization also deployed emergency mobile units delivering food, medicine, and other critical supplies. For the most frail who require daily home-care services, some home-care workers are spending nights with their clients. Additionally, JDC’s office and the Kiev Hesed (the Jewish social service organization) is running on special hours to ensure round-the-clock care.

Over 300,000 Jews live in Ukraine today. JDC provides life saving assistance to tens of thousands of needy Jewish elderly and children in Kiev and other cities and towns throughout the country. JDC is also shaping new generations of Jewish leaders and developing Jewish community life through Jewish Community Centers, Jewish family retreats, Jewish holiday celebrations, cultural festivals, educational opportunities, and young adult leadership training programs.