Hundreds of Jewish Children Across Ukraine Receive New Backpacks As Chabad Gears Up For The New School Year

Ahead of the 2026–2027 academic year, the Jewish Relief Network Ukraine (JRNU) has once again launched its annual “Together to School” initiative, providing new school backpacks to hundreds of Jewish children from families facing financial hardship across Ukraine. The primary beneficiaries are children entering first grade, while older students with particularly urgent needs are also included.

Timed ahead of the traditional “First Bell’ on September 1, the initiative helps needy families meet some of the practical expenses of sending children back to the classroom while giving young students the excitement and confidence of beginning the year with their own new school supplies.

The annual campaign is part of a broader, long-standing effort to support vulnerable Jewish children and their families. Beyond backpacks, JRNU and its partner programs provide families in need with assistance ranging from food packages, clothing, and basic necessities to medical care, emotional support, and other individualized services throughout the year.

“A new backpack may seem like a small thing, but for a child in need it can represent a fresh beginning and the feeling that someone cares and is thinking about them,” says Rabbi Simcha Levenhartz of JRNU.

“Our goal goes far beyond preparing children for the first day of school. Together with our network of support and communities, we look at the needs of the entire family and provide ongoing support so that every Jewish child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and build a healthy and independent future.”