About Us

Rebuilding Jewish Life in Zhytomyr

In 1994, Rabbi Shlomo and Esther Wilhelm arrived in Zhytomyr, Ukraine, with a mission - to reawaken the Jewish spirit in a city where Jewish life had been silenced for generations.
What began with a handful of families and deep faith soon flourished into a vibrant community that has touched thousands of lives.

A Community of Heart and Purpose

For nearly three decades, the Jewish Community of Zhytomyr has served as a spiritual home and social foundation for Jews across the region.
Through our Jewish school, community center, and the Alumim Children’s Center, we have created a place where every Jew - from the youngest child to the oldest survivor - feels valued, supported, and connected.

Our programs include day camps, Shabbatons, holiday events, summer and winter camps, and educational initiatives that nurture Jewish identity, joy, and continuity.
Each project is driven by one goal: to care for our people — body, mind, and soul.

When War Changed Everything

When the war in Ukraine began, our community faced an unthinkable challenge. Overnight, we were called to protect our children - and we made the courageous decision to relocate 80 children and their dedicated staff to Ashkelon, Israel.
It was a moment of faith in action — a moment when the meaning of Am Yisrael Chai became real.

Two Homes, One Heart

Today, our mission spans two homes - Zhytomyr and Ashkelon - connected by one shared purpose: to give every Jewish child a future filled with love, safety, and hope.

In Zhytomyr, we continue to sustain our school, kindergarten, and community activities, ensuring that Jewish life and learning continue despite the challenges of war.
In Ashkelon, we have become the guardians and family for our children — providing for all their needs with care and devotion.

They receive warm housing, nutritious meals, clothing, therapy, social work support, education, and rich extracurricular activities - but most importantly, they receive a sense of belonging and a vision for their future.

Join Our Journey

Each child in our care carries a story - a story of survival, faith, and renewal.
And each friend who supports us becomes part of that story.

We invite you to subscribe to our updates, stay connected, and join us as partners in our mission.
Your support helps us continue to rebuild lives, strengthen communities, and ensure that the light of Jewish life shines brightly - in Zhytomyr, in Ashkelon, and for generations to come.

🌟 Be Part of Their Story

You can make a lasting difference in the life of a child. Sponsor a child for a year, support our programs, or simply stay connected by subscribing to our updates. Together, we bring light, stability, and hope to children who need it most - ensuring a strong Jewish future.