Hundreds of kids have been participating in the model matzah bakery at the Chabad Neshama Center in Brighton Beach, NY, over the last few weeks.

The children get to grind wheat into flour, mix it with water and roll the dough into their very own matzahs. With costumes and drama the children bring the Passover story to life, reliving the slavery in Egypt, the 10 plagues, the ultimate Exodus and the crossing of the Red Sea.

By the time Passover arrives, over 1600 kids from day schools, public schools and Hebrew schools, as well as individual families, will have enjoyed the hands-on bakery and interactive Exodus experience!

Many Chabad centers run a model matzah bakery in the weeks leading up to Passover.
Parents, contact your local Chabad center and find out if there is one near you.

Children in Ukraine have been living through a serious war for the past year. Despite the extremely difficult conditions, the Jewish community in Kharkov celebrated Purim in the true Jewish spirit.

Thousands of people filled seats at the Kharkov circus to hear the reading of the Megillah and enjoy a full program. The Ohr Avner Chabad Jewish elementary school—with the children adorned in colorful costumes—put on a Purim shpiel (comedy) to the delight of the audience. There were also acrobats, clowns, singing and dancing. The circus acts amazed the audience, who got a much-needed break from current events in Ukraine.

Throughout the day, there were also special programs in kindergarten and elementary schools.

These kids have been going to the senior center every Purim for the last few years with their father and grandmother. The residents hear the megillah and the children wear their costumes and make a musical performance for them. They give out mishloach manot and spread Purim cheer throughout the center.

This year, it was snowing, but they decided to go anyway. Then, while they were driving, they got a flat tire and had to wait on the side of the road until they could get a new one and continue on their way. While they were waiting, they rehearsed their songs and the play they had prepared.

Even though they were tired and hungry, and the trip took SIX hours instead of the expected two, they were determined to give the residents of the senior center a Purim to remember, and they did.

Did you go out of your way to share Purim with others? Leave a comment and let us know!