Upholding Humanity for Ukrainian Refugees
When a stranger dwells among you in your land, you are not to maltreat him. The stranger who dwells with you shall be like a native among you; you shall love him like yourself, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God. (Leviticus 19: 33-34)
On Sukkot Temple Beth Sholom’s Social Action Committee, Sisterhood and Men’s club, partnering with Upholding Humanity, a local interfaith coalition, welcomed Rabbi Sarah Bassin, Director of Clergy and Congregations for HIAS into our Sukkah. Rabbi Bassin shared the plight of Ukrainian Refugees that are fleeing from the carnage in their country. She introduced us to the Welcome Circle program that HIAS has developed to assist these refugees in settling here. If you were not able to join us that evening you can view Rabbi Bassin’s presentation. Through our continued partnership with Upholding Humanity, the members of our congregation can make a difference in the lives of these refugees. There are several ways that you can help:
Housing
Upholding Humanity was recently paired with a new Jewish Ukrainian family. This family of 3 adults needs permanent housing, they are seeking a 2-bedroom apartment in Queens or Brooklyn, preferably Forest Hills, Rego Park, or Crown Heights. Their ideal apartment would be close to public transportation and essential businesses, near a Russian-speaking synagogue, and in a Russian-speaking neighborhood if possible. Their budget is around $2,300. They do not have a personal guarantor, but can have a corporate guarantor or use a 3rd party guarantor service if needed. If you know of potential options for this family, please let us know so we can get their volunteer team connected to discuss next steps.
Furniture
If you have furniture you would like to donate, please complete this form from Upholding Humanity.
Volunteering Your Time
Additional volunteers are needed to be matched with families from the Ukrainian. Individuals who would like to join a Welcome Circle for Ukrainian evacuees need to have at least 5 hours of availability per week. If you would like to volunteer and join a Welcome Circle please read and complete Upholding Humanity’s volunteer interest form. Their Project Coordinator, Maddy Donath, will reach out to you.
If you cannot commit to 5 hours per week but would like to volunteer your time, please complete the general volunteer form and we will get back to you as your assistance is needed.
Financial Assistance
Your donations will be used to help these families begin their new lives here. Please help if you can. Every dollar collected will be used for direct assistance to these families.
