Shluchim’s children from Russia, Northern and Eastern Europe, and Central Asia, who learn online all year, recently met face-to-face in Moscow for a unique ten-day winter camp.
The Ohr Menachem Online school, serving Shluchim’s children from Russia, Northern and Eastern Europe, and Central Asia, recently concluded a unique ten-day winter camp in Moscow.
This online institution, established by ‘Ohr Avner – Chabad’ with the support of the Chief Rabbi of Russia, Rabbi Berel Lazar, brings together students for face-to-face interaction once a year, creating an irreplaceable bond among them.
Rabbi Menachem Halperin, the virtual school’s principal who lives in Eretz Yisroel, emphasized the deep impact of such gatherings. “This encounter will undoubtedly leave a deep impression and have a significant impact on them,” he shared, thanking the Ohr Avner management for their dedication to the Shluchim’s children’s welfare and future.
“Some of these children live in places where it’s dark most of the day all winter and temperatures are below zero,” one of the staff shared. “This camp isn’t just a treat; it’s a necessity. If it were up to them, they would stay together for many more days…”
During the ten days of winter camp, students from Russia, Belarus, and Azerbaijan stayed at the massive educational center in the heart of Moscow. They learned together in real classrooms, davened together in the synagogue, enjoyed social games, and played with the fresh snow piled up along the streets.
“Although the school’s format is virtual,” the administration noted, “they feel like one big family.”
After ten days, they parted with tears of emotion, eagerly awaiting their next gathering.
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