Well, to say the least, it was quite sobering.

I met with a family living in a run-down, 5^th floor walk-up apartment provided to them by JDC.  Thankfully, they were safe and out of harm’s way – but they were scared and fearful of what would happen to them in the future. The mother, two sons and mother-in-law journeyed out of Odesa by bus since they didn’t have transportation of their own. They carried with them three suitcases – that was it. They crossed the border into Moldova not knowing anyone, not knowing where they would stay and with very little money to pay for food and basic necessities. 

The husband, a car mechanic, had to stay back in Odesa as was required. He was desperately looking for work so he could send them money – but work has been impossible to find. It was gut wrenching listening to the mother tell their story. That said, she hugged us and said how thankful she was for our help as tears streamed down her face. 

We also met an older gentleman that was living in a small hotel room where JDC rented rooms for refugees to reside. He was so appreciative of our help – but he seemed so sad and so lost. 

And finally, we heard from a JDC representative that was still living in Odesa. She told us that since there is no electricity, there is no heat – so she goes to sleep every night fully clothed. She and her family sleep in total darkness fearful of being robbed or bombed. And with no electricity, it is difficult finding places to charge her phone so she can communicate with loved ones back home, like her elderly parents. 

Thankfully, the Jewish community of Baltimore and The Associated raised millions of dollars through the Ukraine Emergency Fund to support our partner agencies throughout Ukraine and throughout our partner city, Odesa.  

I was grateful to see how the food, clothing, housing, mental health support, medical supplies and emergency support services have helped immensely.  

Read more about Neil Katz.