Renewing Hope in Odesa

For more than 30 years, The Associated’s Baltimore–Odesa Partnership has been at the heart of rebuilding and sustaining Jewish life in Odesa. Rooted in a commitment to caring for the vulnerable, strengthening community institutions, and inspiring future generations, the Partnership has helped make Jewish Odesa a place of belonging and strength.

This foundation is what allowed us to respond swiftly when Russia’s war against Ukraine began four years ago. Building upon decades of trust and collaboration, the Partnership expanded its work to meet urgent and evolving needs.  Because the Partnership was already deeply rooted in Odesa, Jewish life could continue with resilience and hope, even in times of profound uncertainty.

Caring

The Partnership facilitates programs that bring stability and opportunity, including support for people living with disabilities, counseling for individuals and families and maintaining safe community spaces to access services and connections. 

Emergency Response

 The Associated distributed over $2 million in emergency funding since the war began, thanks to the generosity of the Baltimore Jewish community. The Partnership acted quickly to provide food, medicine, generators and essential support for vulnerable residents — ensuring that critical services and Jewish institutions could continue operating despite ongoing disruption.  Read more about how we have utilized our Ukraine Emergency Funding.

Jewish Connections

Through cultural programs, holiday celebrations and educational opportunities, the Partnership ensures that Odesa’s Jewish community can continue to uphold its heritage, engage with one another and strengthen the bonds that define Jewish life.

Voices from Odesa

We are deeply grateful for the guidance and compassionate leadership of Baltimore-Odesa Partnership Coordinator Oksana Nelina, who is profoundly devoted to the Jewish community, despite the war’s constant disruption.  Since 2016, Oksana has been our eyes and ears on the ground in Odesa – helping to build meaningful connections between our communities and assessing emerging needs.

Stories of strength, gratitude and connection from Odesa’s Jewish community illustrate why this work matters now more than ever.