Rabbi Mendel and Chanale Pink, together with their daughter Sheina, will be moving to Asunción, Paraguay, a small but vibrant Jewish population of just over 1,000, where Chabad is the only traditional presence in the country. 

Rabbi Mendel and Chanale Pink, together with their daughter Sheina, will be landing in Asunción, Paraguay to start their Shlichus on Chai Elul 5785

Paraguay, a developing nation with a small but vibrant Jewish population of just over 1,000, boasts a warm community. Incredibly, Chabad is the only traditional presence in the country.  The community is welcoming, and there is a thirst for Yiddishkeit.

Mendel has already spent two Tishreis in Paraguay, where the most common question he heard was: “When are you moving down here? There’s so much to do!”

For Chanale, this is an incredible opportunity to turn her childhood dreams into reality.  For over two decades, Chanale’s parents have led the Chabad center in Asunción with total dedication – from representing the Jewish community in government affairs to providing kosher food under challenging conditions, to running a shul, and building a mikvah.  

Now, the time has come to expand with an emphasis on youth, families, and education.

Their plans include:

1. A Warm, Welcoming Space – Shabbat children davening, holiday celebrations, and Mommy & Me for young families.
   
2. Ckids and Cteen Programming – Weekly activities fostering Jewish pride and connection for children and teens.
   
3. Personalized Jewish Education – One-on-one learning, bar mitzvah prep, and tailored lessons for every Jewish child.

Incredibly, the last Sukkos, a children’s event – with no advertising – drew over 25 eager participants. Seven babies were born in the community this year, and more young Israeli families are arriving in Asunción, looking for connection.

The Pinks are raising $100,000, with over 150 supporters already contributing. Their vision is to build a strong foundation that will be sustained by the local community for years to come.

“This is a tremendous opportunity to grow Jewish life in Asunción,” says Mendel. “We are ready to make this happen. With your partnership, we can make the Rebbe’s dream a reality.”

To support their Shlichus, visit: givingamp.com/paraguay