By Erin Levi
On Monday, March 10, Bukharian students from three Jewish schools—Yeshiva of Central Queens (YCQ), Shaare Zion, and Ezra Academy—joined forces for a special initiative led by Bukharian charity organization All About Kindness. Their mission? To pack thousands of Mishloach Manot (Purim gift baskets) for children and families in need across the Queens Jewish community, spreading joy and generosity just in time for the holiday.
Later that week, on Thursday, March 13, students also visited a local Adult Day Care Center, fostering intergenerational connections through their acts of kindness.
This year’s Mishloach Manot theme emphasized spreading kindness, hope, and resilience. More than a thousand carefully prepared baskets were distributed on Purim to hospitalized children, orphans, widows, and families facing hardships across New York.
One of the most inspiring displays of chesed (kindness) came from the students of Ezra Academy, who took the initiative entirely on their own. Without being asked, they reached out to All About Kindness, raised funds independently, and crafted the Purim baskets from scratch—choosing gifts, designing the wrapping, and personally assembling each package.
“All About Kindness is dedicated to inspiring the next generation to give back and think of others,” said Lyudmila Mierova, the driving force behind the initiative.
On Purim day, All About Kindness also distributed over 100 meals donated from Mazal Supermarket to families in need. “None of this would have been possible without the incredible support of the Bukharian Jewish community,” Mierova said.
Through their generosity, these students and volunteers ensured that the spirit of Purim was not just celebrated—but shared.