Germany’s Foreign Minister and top diplomats visited Mishpacha Orphanage in Odessa to see firsthand how 124 amazing kids are thriving—despite the war.
In a moving and high-profile state visit, Germany’s Foreign Minister Mr. Johann Wadephul, together with German Ambassador to Ukraine Mr. Martin Jäger and Germany’s Honorary Consul in Odessa Mr. Alexander Kipke, visited the Chabad institutions in Odessa, led by Chief Rabbi of Southern Ukraine, Rabbi Avraham Wolff.
The delegation came to witness the broad humanitarian and community work led by Chabad of Odessa—work that has continued with unwavering dedication throughout the ongoing crisis.
A central focus of the visit was the “Mishpacha Ukraine” Orphanage—a unique Chabad-run institution that provides shelter, education, and love to 124 orphaned and displaced children from across Ukraine. Despite the challenges of war, the orphanage has remained operational, offering stability, hope, and care to some of the country’s most vulnerable.
During the visit, the children, along with Rabbi Wolff, presented a symbolic and heartfelt gift to the Foreign Minister: a silver relief of a German passport issued at the start of the war to Tuvia, one of the orphanage’s children. The passport, granted by the German government, enabled his evacuation and ensured his safety during a time of great danger.
“This gift will forever remind you of the extraordinary kindness you showed us at our most difficult moments,” said Mr. Igor Shatkhin, President of the Federation of Jewish Communities of Southern Ukraine.
In response, Foreign Minister Wadephul expressed deep emotion:
“We did not come here just to observe – we came to ensure a future of security and success for these children. We have not forgotten you for a moment, and we will continue to do all we can to support you.”
The visit served as a powerful symbol of international solidarity and a testament to the strength of community, compassion, and resilience in the face of adversity.
