This past January, 55 women from Pittsburgh embarked on the Women’s Mission to Cuba to foster connections with the Cuban Jewish community. The women brought not only suitcases, but hope—to Havana’s Jewish community. Mission participants, including Federation staff, hand-delivered critical over-the-counter medications, first aid supplies and other essentials not available on the island.

But the story doesn't end there.

In the weeks that followed, several participants felt compelled to do more. Molly Braver, one of the mission chairs, reached out to a local contact in Havana to identify the community’s most urgent needs. She then organized a follow-up collection of supplies, rallying support during and after the group’s June reunion.

Finding a reliable way to get the donations to Cuba proved challenging—until the owner of Cultural Cuba, the tour company that had guided the mission, stepped in. Committed to the cause, he personally delivered four suitcases full of supplies during one of his frequent trips from Miami to Havana.

The impact was immediate and deeply appreciated. Because of the women's dedication to strengthening Jewish life, supporting those in need and building a safer, more inclusive world, the company expressed their gratitude for the donations made:

"We confirm receipt of the 4 suitcases (!) of donations shipped to Cultural Cuba to distribute/donate to the Jewish Community of Havana through their Patronato Community Services on behalf of the Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh.

Thank you!

This is incredibly generous and will be greatly appreciated. These items will truly make a difference and have a positive impact. We appreciate your efforts in organizing and shipping these donations, which are so needed.

On behalf of the Jewish Community of Havana, we express our deepest gratitude to all of your members who traveled to Cuba and who contributed donations, supporting the Cuban people and Havana's struggling Jewish Community through their generosity. Tikkun Olam."

Thanks to your support, the Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh can continue to do the work we set out to do—meeting Jewish needs wherever they are, with compassion, connection and continuity.

Want to get involved in Women's Philanthropy?

Contact Emma today!

Emma Renfrew
Women's Philanthropy & Engagement Manager
erenfrew@jfedpgh.org
412-992-5212