Due to lingering anti-pandemic restrictions, we were unable to organize our benefit during the winter Hanukkah season. Instead, we held an extraordinary benefit event on March 16, 2022, at the ROXY club, combining it with the celebration of the joyous holiday of Purim.
The festive evening began with Chief Land Rabbi Karol Efraim Sidon delivering the traditional reading of the Megillat Esther scroll. Opening remarks were given by Michal Klíma, Chairman of the NFOH Board of Directors, Marta Malá, Executive Director of the NFOH, and Petr Papoušek, President of the Federation of Jewish Communities in the Czech Republic.
The evening was hosted by Sona Beaumont and Jiří Valeš. Wonderful live music for listening and dancing was provided by the Mackie Messer Klezmer Band and Bengas, accompanied by a traditional raffle.
The atmosphere was profoundly affected by the then recently erupted Russian aggression against Ukraine. Attendees expressed hopes that the aggressor would soon be defeated just like the evil Haman, and we were glad to welcome several Ukrainian refugees among our guests.
A total of 50,406 CZK was raised toward essential care provided by individual Jewish communities to their seniors and Holocaust survivors.
Additional photos can be viewed in our photo gallery.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the wonderful performers, hosts, partners, and everyone who joined us for this extraordinary Purim celebration. Thank you for your support, and we look forward to seeing you again next year!
