Uniting Foundation Supports 150 Elderly Jews in Latvia with Holistic Care and Plans Nursing Home

The Uniting Foundation in Riga, Latvia, currently assists around 150 elderly Jewish residents through a comprehensive support system that includes a day center, social workers, hot meals, medical accompaniment, and daily aid. Alina Skler, a representative of the foundation, explained that while the organization initially focused on Jewish heritage projects, it quickly shifted to addressing urgent social needs, dedicating 70 to 80 percent of its efforts to elderly welfare. The foundation goes beyond charity by providing practical help such as home repairs, bill payments, and emotional support.

Uniting operates a holistic model with professional social workers who accompany seniors to medical appointments and run a day center offering language classes, art workshops, technology lessons, and Israeli cooking events. Skler emphasized the family-like atmosphere of the center, where seniors feel truly at home. The foundation also intervenes in critical situations, such as assisting a stroke victim with hospital transfer and home modifications, and employs emergency alert systems and daily wellness checks.

Despite its extensive activities, Uniting does not replace existing Jewish community institutions or religious organizations, instead cooperating alongside them and directing those interested to synagogues and Chabad groups. However, Skler expressed frustration over limited cooperation from the official community, which hampers reaching more seniors in need.

Looking ahead, the foundation aims to establish an independent nursing home managed by Uniting, recognizing the significant resources required but considering it a necessary next step. Skler called on the Israeli public and the international community for professional and financial support, highlighting the foundation’s transparency and impact. For the elderly Jews in Latvia, Uniting represents much more than aid, it is the family they rely on.