At Camp Yeka Ukraine, Jewish identity isn’t just taught, it’s lived. And this week, that was demonstrated by six campers who courageously chose to get Brissim, joining the eternal covenant of Avraham Avinu.

At Camp Yeka Ukraine, Jewish identity isn’t just taught, it’s lived. And this week, that was demonstrated by six campers who courageously chose to get Brissim, joining the eternal covenant of Avraham Avinu.

Among them was Yan, a longtime camper who’s attended over 20 Yeka sessions, summer, winter, and Pesach, across nearly a decade. Over the years, he embraced Yiddishkeit but always held back from taking this final step. This summer, during a Friday night meal, Yan’s counselor sat and farbrenged with him, encouraging him to take the step so pivotal for his neshama. After some time, Yan looked up and said: This time, I’m doing it.

But a few days later, his resolve began to waver. His best friend, who isn’t Jewish, told him he’d never speak to him again if he went through with it. That night, staff members quietly sat beside Yan on a bench and began to sing the camp’s signature “Yeka oh Yeka,” followed by Shamil’s Niggun. As the melodies filled the air, Yan began to cry, and in that moment, he made his decision.

The next day, surrounded by his counselors, he entered the Bris room with courage and pride.

Following the Ukraine session, Camp Yeka staff visited numerous families living in remote towns and villages across western Ukraine, bringing joy, inspiration, and connection to children often living in isolation.

Today, the first Camp Yeka Israel session in three years began. Ukrainian Jewish children who have been living in Eretz Yisroel since fleeing the war are now experiencing the same unforgettable warmth, energy, and Yiddishkeit that Yeka is known for.

While camp is already underway, critical funds are still needed to keep camp running. The Yeka team is still short $70,000 and is urgently appealing for support to ensure every aspect of the program can continue smoothly.

To help make this session possible, visit Charidy.com/Yeka

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