JHF Responds to Ukraine Conflict

Photo Credit: Government of Ukraine / Wikimedia Commons / Public Domain

The Jewish Healthcare Foundation (JHF) stands with Ukraine and the individuals and families affected by the war. Among the many very challenging aspects of this crisis, the increased risk of human trafficking facing women and children leaving Ukraine without the men in their family is one issue that must be addressed. In solidarity with the Ukrainian people, JHF contributed donations to the following organizations providing a variety of services and aid to Ukrainian refugees: Brother's Brother Foundation, Joint Distribution Committee, Clalit Health Services, Direct Relief, HIAS, World Central Kitchen, and Doctors Without Borders.

JHF also extends support and solidarity to those living in the United States with friends and family still in Ukraine, including some close members of the JHF family and network.

"Since the war began, I've been so grateful for the kindness and support of those around me. Every day we're seeing the horror of what is happening, but we must not miss the human kindness that has emerged in the face of this crisis," said Maria Kalevitch, PhD, Chief Innovation Officer & Dean, School of Engineering, Mathematics and Science at Robert Morris University and JHF Board Trustee. Dr. Kalevitch was born in Moscow, but she identifies with her mother's Ukrainian heritage and still has family members living in Ukraine who are affected by the war. "My students, my colleagues, everyone at JHF, they have all been so supportive. I am truly grateful how we Americans are standing up for Ukraine - that enhanced my faith in humanity."

"I made the tough decision to leave what is now Ukraine 33 years ago with my two young daughters and make the trek for a better opportunity in the United States," says Marsha Shisman, a native of Ukraine who was an employee of JHF for 18 years. "I have watched the country flourish and it is terrible to see the destruction that the war has left on my homeland… We can help Ukrainian people by continuing to share the stories and discussions of how civilians are being killed… Thank you to everyone who has reached out during this extremely difficult time." Read Shisman's full statement here.