Rosh Hashanah Preparations Underway For The Jewish Communities of Ukraine

As the High Holidays approach, Jewish communities across Ukraine are preparing for a fourth Rosh Hashanah under the shadow of the ongoing crisis. Despite the challenges, much of the holiday provisioning is taking place within Ukraine itself, through specially designated facilities operating under the supervision of Ukraine’s Kashrut Committee, led by Rabbi Pinchas Vishedski.

In recent weeks, production began in Kyiv on locally made, high-quality kosher honey, as well as poultry and meat, all carefully overseen to ensure strict kosher standards. These goods will supply tens of thousands of Jews across the country for the holiday season.

In the coming days, a fleet of trucks operated by JRNU, the Jewish Relief Network Ukraine, will deliver festive packages to dozens of Jewish communities nationwide. Each package includes a jar of fresh honey, a honey cake, a uniquely designed calendar for each city, a Shabbat candle-lighting magnet, and accessible Jewish literature in the local language.

Alongside the holiday packages, JRNU, the Federation of Jewish Communities and Chabad’s humanitarian arm in Ukraine, will also distribute humanitarian aid—canned goods and basic necessities—delivered respectfully and efficiently through community centers.

“Honey represents a sweet year,” said Rabbi Simcha Levenhartz of JRNU. “For us, living through an ongoing crisis, it carries double and even triple meaning. We all pray for a reality of peace, calm, and serenity after so many difficult years.”

Communities are anticipating high participation in synagogues and holiday programs, a sign of resilience and renewed connection. “The non-stop activity in Jewish communities is a source of strength for every Jew living here,” added Rabbi Levenhartz. “Despite the difficult situation, more and more Jews who were once distant are finding a warm home in their communities.”