Jewish Life in Cuba Today
Religious and Cultural Life:
- Shabbat and Holiday Celebrations: The community holds regular Shabbat services and celebrates all Jewish holidays, which are vital for maintaining traditions and bringing people together.
- Educational Programs: A Sunday school is a central activity, where young and old alike study Hebrew, Jewish history, and traditions. This is a crucial effort for passing on the heritage to the next generation.
- "Rikudim" (Israeli Folk Dance): Dance groups are a popular and lively way for community members of all ages to connect with Israeli culture and celebrate together.
Humanitarian and Social Welfare:
- Community Pharmacy: The Patronato operates a pharmacy that provides much-needed medications to community members, particularly the elderly, as access to medicine can be challenging in Cuba. This is a key project supported by international Jewish organizations.
- Food Support: Given the economic challenges and food shortages, the community organizes the distribution of food packages and often provides communal Shabbat meals, which are essential for the well-being of its most vulnerable members.
- Support for the Elderly and Homebound: The community maintains a strong network of care, ensuring that isolated or elderly members who cannot attend services in person receive visits and support.
Jewish community centers and synagogues:
- Beth Shalom (El Patronato)
Address: Calle I esq. 13, Vedado, Ciudad de la Habana, Cuba, CP 10400
Phone: +53 7 832 8953
Fax: +53 7 33 3778
Email: beth_shalom@enet.cu
- Centro Hebreo Sefaradi de Cuba
Address: Calle 17 esq. E, Vedado, La Habana, Cuba, 10400
Phone: +53 7 832 6623
Email: sefaradi@enet.cu
- Adath Israel
Adress: Picota 52 esquina Acosta, Habana Vieja, La Habana, Cuba, 10100
Phone: +53 7 861 3495
Email: adath@enet.cu
- Comunidad Hebrea Hatikva (Santiago de Cuba)
Address: Corona 273, e/ Habana y Los Maceo, Santiago de Cuba, Cuba, 90100
Phone: +53 22 686180 or +53 22 624913
Email: hatikva@enet.cu
- Comunidad Hebrea Teferit Israel (Camagüey)
Address: Andres Sanchez #365, e/ Capdevila Y Joaquin Aguero, Camaguey, Cuba
Phone: +53 32 284639 or +53 32 291794
- Comunidad Or Hadash (Santa Clara)
Phone: +53 422 74280