Friends of Refugees of Eastern Europe (F.R.E.E.) is an Australian nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting Jewish immigrants from Eastern Europe, particularly those arriving from the former Soviet Union. Established in 1986 in the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney, New South Wales, F.R.E.E. serves as a center for Jewish life and education, focusing on restoring Jewish identity and heritage diminished by decades of communist oppression[5].

History and Background

F.R.E.E. traces its origins to a worldwide movement founded in 1969 by Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, known as the Lubavitcher Rebbe. The organization's international network was established to address the unique cultural, spiritual, and social challenges faced by Jewish refugees from Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union[1][2]. The Sydney branch was specifically created to meet the needs of Eastern European migrant communities in New South Wales.

Mission and Objectives

The mission of Friends of Refugees of Eastern Europe is to make the beauty of Jewish principles and heritage accessible to all Jews, regardless of their background or affiliation. Its core goals include:

• Assisting Jewish immigrants in their moral, spiritual, religious, educational, and material integration into Australian society.

• Restoring Jewish identity and education through cultural and religious programs to counter the effects of assimilation and past oppression.

• Providing social services tailored to the needs of the Eastern European Jewish community[5].

Programs and Services

F.R.E.E. offers a wide range of programs and services to support its community, including:

• Counselling services focusing on youth, fertility, and general social support.

• Special events and holiday programs that celebrate Jewish traditions and foster community spirit.

• Outreach initiatives including hospital and prison chaplaincies.

• Social services such as a soup kitchen and senior citizen programs.

• Educational programs including youth camps, Jewish holiday care packages, and weekly informational communications[5].

Community Impact

F.R.E.E. serves over 6,000 families primarily in Sydney's Eastern Suburbs, playing a vital role in helping new immigrants maintain their Jewish heritage while adapting to life in Australia. The organization acts as a cultural and religious anchor for a community affected by the loss of Jewish identity during the Soviet era[5].

Affiliations and Recognition

Friends of Refugees of Eastern Europe is registered as a charity in Australia with the Australian Business Number (ABN) 38072729474RR0001. It operates in affiliation with the global F.R.E.E. network founded by Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson and is recognized for its comprehensive approach to supporting refugees and asylum seekers within the Jewish community[1][3].

This article summarizes the role and activities of Friends of Refugees of Eastern Europe in Australia, highlighting its foundation, mission, programs, and community significance.

[1] https://www.friendsofrefugees.org/worldwide/ [2] https://www.friendsofrefugees.org [3] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/0a417a12-2caf-e811-a95e-000d3ad24c60 [4] https://friendsofrefugees.org.au [5] https://www.freecentre.com.au/about-f-r-e-e