The Yael Foundation, established by philanthropists Yael and Uri Poliavich to support excellent Jewish educational experiences globally, announced that it is providing $1.75 million to help Jewish kids around the world attend summer camp throughout Europe, including Mosaic United’s summer camp for Jewish Ukrainian refugee children.
“Camps provide more than just summer fun; they cultivate lifelong friendships, nurture cultural identity and inspire dreams. Supporting Jewish summer camps ensures our children thrive in a rich, supportive environment where they build connections and embrace their heritage. We are proud to invest in their future,” said Chaya Yosovich, Executive Director of the Yael Foundation.
The foundation’s support to Mosaic United was matched by the Ministry of Diaspora Affairs and the Jewish Federations of North America. The funds in large part were geared towards serving thousands Jewish Ukrainians affected by the ongoing conflict. Sadly, this population continues to suffer from the displacement and distress of war.
Yosovich, who was a young counselor in a camp in Ukraine, working with Ukrainian and Russian girls, added: ”That summer in Ukraine turned me into a lifelong advocate for providing every child with the summer camp experience. This experience was transformative. I met people who were so different from anyone I had known, yet we found common ground. I saw firsthand how the skills and lessons learned at camp have a unique impact, often stronger than what is taught in school. As the Executive Director of the Yael Foundation, I am proud to continue this mission.”
