Contact: Emily Tipermas 301.770.8371
HEBREW HOME’S NEW RUSSIAN PROGRAM MEETS CARE NEEDS OF RUSSIAN COMMUNITY
THANKS TO THE GUARDIAN FUND FOR EXCELLENCE, the Hebrew Home of Greater Washington has recently established a new Russian unit, created to meet the demand for skilled nursing care for elderly members of Maryland’s Russian community. Russian families have customarily cared for aging parents at home, but in America the grown children of these Russian immigrants, who now hold full-time jobs, are looking for long-term care for their parents in a setting that is sensitive to their distinct needs. The Hebrew Home has stepped in to take on this role. The new Russian Program is unique because it is geared toward providing cultural continuity for its residents by establishing a Russian-speaking environment. At the core of the program is a residential unit staffed by professionals who speak fluent Russian, including the program coordinator, a physician, an expressive arts therapist, and food service personnel. We are also fortunate to have the support of many enthusiastic Russian-speaking volunteers. To further enhance the Russian atmosphere, the unit offers an extensive array of Russian language reading material, a daily schedule designed to foster friendships and enhance a feeling of shared heritage, and finally, access to events organized for a Russian-speaking audience at the nearby Jewish Community Center. “Elderly Russians in our area will discover welcoming arms at the Hebrew Home,” says Sophia Presman, the program’s coordinator. Here, they can benefit from quality health care, and at the same time be surrounded by the warmth of Jewish and Eastern European tradition. For more information about the Russian Program, please contact Michael Skaist, Director of Admissions at the Hebrew Home, at 301.770.8518 or Sophia Presman at 301.770.8321. HEBREW HOME CELEBRATES VICTORY DAY, MAY 9 In May of 1945, German military forces surrendered to the Soviet Union and Allied forces at Red Army headquarters in Berlin-Karlshorst, marking the formal end of WWII in Europe. The Soviets joyously celebrated the event with a ceremonial Victory Parade that proudly marched into Moscow’s Red Square. Russians throughout the world
continue to remember this pivotal historic event annually by honoring its courageous veterans at Victory Day celebrations. The Hebrew Home’s Russian Unit will maintain the important tradition of recalling the Soviet victory at its own special celebration. On May 9 at 2 p.m., in the Smith-Kogod Residence Social Hall, residents, families, and visitors will gather together to reminisce, enjoy light refreshments that include blinis and blintzes, and treat themselves to special entertainment that features the expressive music of guitarist Vladimir Fridman. In addition, the occasion will provide the opportunity for guests and residents to see an exhibition of evocative Russian artwork created by Russian artists under the auspices of The Russian Art Project, a Maryland non-profit organization that exhibits the work of Russian artists throughout the United States. The Hebrew Home is especially pleased that the Project intends not only to participate in the festivities but to maintain an ongoing relationship with us. We hope you will consider joining us on May 9. It will be a wonderful opportunity to hear great music, eat delicious food, see beautiful art, and enliven the holiday for our Russian residents. Please RSVP to Sophia Presman, 301.770.8321.