As relentless missile and drone attacks batter Ukraine’s capital, leaving dozens dead and thousands in distress, Kyiv’s Jewish community has mobilized an extensive humanitarian operation. Led by Chief Rabbi Yonatan Markovitch, volunteers are distributing food, water, clothing, and essential supplies to Jews and non-Jews alike who have been affected by the bombardments.

Kyiv, Ukraine’s capital, has endured one of its most devastating waves of bombardment since the outbreak of the war. In recent days, large-scale missile and drone attacks have struck residential neighborhoods and civilian infrastructure, claiming dozens of lives and leaving many more wounded.

The scale of the destruction prompted city authorities to declare an official day of mourning, while rescue teams continued searching through the rubble for survivors and victims.

Alongside the emergency services, the JCC Beit Menachem community in Kyiv mobilized to provide assistance to those affected. Under the leadership of Kyiv’s Chief Rabbi and Chabad shliach, Rabbi Yonatan Markovitch, community volunteers launched a broad humanitarian relief effort to aid residents whose lives have been upended by the attacks.

Over the past several days, volunteers have been distributing food, bottled water, clothing, medication, essential supplies, and other basic necessities to families whose homes were damaged, as well as to the elderly, the needy, and anyone requiring immediate assistance, regardless of religion. In addition to providing material aid, volunteers are offering practical support and guidance to families left without help in the wake of the devastation.

“At a time when the air raid sirens scarcely stop, our responsibility is to be here for every person in need,” Rabbi Markovitch said. “We are distributing food, water, and essential supplies, strengthening families and giving them hope. Our mission is to bring light precisely during these darkest moments for the people of Ukraine in general, and for the residents of Kyiv in particular.”