“Grow Hope” for Ukrainian Refugees

Over the past several weeks, KleinLife has taken initiative to create a life-changing service for refugees who have escaped the horrors of war in Ukraine and are now living in the Northeast section of Philadelphia.

Before KleinLife opened the Ukrainian Refugee Children Summer Camp, the idea was to take a few refugee children and give them the opportunity to be children again. As word spread throughout the community, it became apparent that the need would be greater than anticipated. Quickly, the number rose from just a few to 20 campers. Since opening its doors (and hearts) 4 weeks ago, KleinLife has been able to give 50 campers a joyous camp experience for free.

Campers have been able to enjoy themselves with fun summer activities including swimming in the pool, having culturally appropriate meals, and being surrounded by Ukrainian-speaking staff. Smiles are shining again for these children that have faced what no child should ever have to.

This effort was not done by the agency alone. Through the generosity of the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia, KleinLife Board of Directors, and members of the community, KleinLife has raised $90,000 and was able to offset the cost of running this life-saving program. However, more donations are needed to help sustain and grow this program for Ukrainian refugee families.

Yesterday, KleinLife announced their fundraising campaign, Grow Hope, an initiative to help this free program continue for the next year and to potentially provide additional services, such as an after-school program and 2023 summer camp, medical and dental support, emergency food packages, and casework.

For more information about Grow Hope and how you can donate, please visit kleinlife.org/growhope.

The event was shown on 6ABC, NBC10, and FOX29 and could be heard on KYWNewsradio.