Missions to Jewish Cuba
Mitzvah Missions to Jewish Cuba
The Jewish community of Cuba, a vibrant and resilient part of our global family, is facing unprecedented challenges. As they navigate a difficult period of shortages and economic hardship, their need for connection and support is greater than ever.
We invite you to join us for a profound and unique Jewish Cuba experience. This is more than a trip; it is an opportunity for direct engagement and meaningful solidarity. Your visit provides a vital lifeline, reminding our Cuban brethren that they are not forgotten.
This special Shabbat experience includes:
- Communal Prayer: Participate in Friday night services and a shared Shabbat dinner at the Patronato, fostering personal connections with local families.
Direct Support: Bring much-needed humanitarian aid and engage directly with community members who are the heart and soul of Jewish life in Cuba.
- Cultural Exchange: Learn firsthand about the rich history and enduring spirit of this small but committed community.
- Private Sector Engagement: Your legal travel directly supports independent Cuban families and businesses, in full compliance with U.S. OFAC regulations.
Every visit makes a tangible difference, strengthening the community’s ability to survive and thrive. By joining us, you are not simply witnessing their history—you are helping to write their future.
Mission Programs in Jewish Cuba
A 5-Day Journey to Support the Cuban People: Jewish Cuba Heritage
Day 1 – Welcome to Havana
Upon arrival at José Martí International Airport in Havana, you will be met by your local guide and support team. Your activities will focus on engaging with and supporting the Cuban private sector. We'll have lunch at a privately owned restaurant, known as a paladar. Next, we'll embark on a panoramic tour of Modern Havana and visit the Museum of the Revolution to understand the historical context of the Cuban people. Check into your accommodation. In the evening, a welcome dinner will be held at another local paladar.
Day 2 – Shabbat with the Community
The day is dedicated to meaningful interactions with the Cuban Jewish community.
Morning: Depart from the accommodation to the Sephardic Jewish Center and its Holocaust Museum for an educational briefing on the history and resilience of this community. Afterward, visit a local agricultural market to learn about daily life and engage with Cuban vendors.
Lunch: Enjoy lunch at a paladar or with members of the Jewish community at a local center, providing direct support for their programs.
Afternoon: Participate in a vikur holim (visiting the sick) activity, providing support to elderly or homebound community members.
Evening: Join the community at the Patronato for shared Shabbat services and dinner, an essential opportunity for cultural exchange and mutual understanding.
Day 3 – Engagement and Cultural Exchange
Morning: Participate in a communal Shacharit service or engage in a free morning for self-directed activities that continue to support the Cuban people. An optional tour of Modern Havana is available, including a visit to Fusterlandia, the home of artist José Fuster, whose work embodies community empowerment through art. You will also see Revolution Square.
Lunch: Lunch will be served at a local paladar, continuing our support for private enterprise.
Afternoon: Visit the Hall of Fame at the National Hotel. Get to know about the history of the place and its famous visitors.
Evening: Join the Patronato and the community’s youth organization for a meaningful Havdalah ceremony, strengthening interpersonal ties.
Day 4 – Supporting Community & Heritage
Morning: Enjoy a guided walking tour of Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, focusing on cultural exchange. We will visit the Jewish Community Center Adath Israel in Centro Habana and make a stop at a traditional, privately run cigar factory to learn about this key part of the Cuban economy.
Lunch: Lunch will be at a paladar or the local Community Center, ensuring your funds directly benefit the community.
Afternoon: We will visit the Sephardic and/or Ashkenazi Jewish cemeteries, a vital act of preserving heritage. On the return, we will stop at Morro Castle for panoramic views. Next, you will have time to explore the Old Havana flea market, where your purchases directly benefit local artisans and entrepreneurs.
Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local paladar to conclude your trip with a final act of support for the Cuban private sector.
Day 5 – Farewell Havana
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel accommodation. Check out and transfer to Havana International Airport for your departure flight.
Lehitraot Havana