Jewish Camp Livens Up Summer in Mariupol

MARIUPOL, Ukraine [FJC] — This summer, Jewish children from Mariupol have already commenced their summer camp season. Run by the local Jewish community, the ‘Shalom State’ camp has its very own Prime Minister and Minister of Finances, Health, and Education. These are the counselors, while all of the children fulfill the roles of deputies. Like any state, participants are learning about the traditions, laws and culture association with living a full Jewish life.

The camp has been running for several years now, with attendance growing with every passing year. The program involves teachers from the Ohr Avner Chabad Evening School, leaders of its extra-curricular activities, and graduates of the ‘Beit Chana’ Pedagogical College in Dnepropetrovsk.

Led by Mrs. Esther Cohen and Ohr Avner Evening School Director Olga Gorelik, the camp offers the kids a multitude of activities: visits to the zoo, lessons on camping and outdoor survival, bonfires and the opportunity to prepare and eat shish-kebabs, sports and developmental games. Girls will also learn how to make Chala and everyone will also enjoy a number of surprise outings. An addition bonus for all attendees is that hot kosher meals and snacks await them every day throughout the season.

The Jewish community of Mariupol is a leading member of the Federation of Jewish Communities of Ukraine.