The Grassroots Jewish Women of Connecticut ‘Shop for Israel’ event was held to support Israeli artisans.

Shop for Israel event at Kimberly Boutique in West Hartford. Courtesy photo

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The Grassroots Jewish Women of Connecticut (GJWCT), a local organization dedicated to advocacy, supporting Israel, building bridges and combating antisemitism, hosted a successful “Shop for Israel” event on Nov. 18 at Kimberly Boutique in West Hartford. The evening celebrated Israeli artisanship, offering guests the opportunity to purchase handmade products created by artisans in Israel.

The event featured Ofek Moscovich, co-founder of Esek – Hebrew for “business” – a socially driven company that connects Israeli artisans with customers worldwide. After working as an Israeli emissary in Connecticut in 2024, Moscovich returned home to a different Israel whose economy was greatly impacted by Oct. 7 and realized the urgent need to support small businesses. Moscovich launched Esek to help artisans regain stability in the face of adversity.

Shop for Israel event at Kimberly Boutique in West Hartford. Courtesy photo

Over 70 women attended the evening, which began with socializing over food and wine before transitioning to a compelling presentation by Moscovich. He detailed the immense challenges faced by small businesses in Israel since Oct. 7, including a 75-90% decline in tourism – a major source of income – and the temporary closure of many businesses as owners were called to serve in the IDF reserves.

Moscovich shared the inspiring story of Alina and Roma, a couple who fled Armenia for Israel six months before Oct. 7. Formerly film producers in Russia, they found themselves starting over in a new country where they didn’t speak the language. After the attacks, a neighbor suggested lighting candles as a way to pray for victims. Dissatisfied with the candles available in the market, they decided to make their own, launching a candle-making business called No Dark. Stories like theirs illustrate the resilience and creativity of Israeli artisans.

Shop for Israel event at Kimberly Boutique in West Hartford. Courtesy photo

Event organizer and GJWCT member Sharon Conway highlighted the importance of solidarity. “Coming together and feeling a sense of community is especially important during these challenging times,” she said. “Whether we know one another personally or not doesn’t matter. We can feel united and have a good time together, and that is powerful.”

Guest and GJWCT member Jill Dulitsky echoed this sentiment, saying, “The event was a beautiful display of what it means to be Jewish. We supported local businesses, we supported artists in Israel, and we came together as a community. The Grassroots Jewish Women’s Group is an inclusive organization that plays a vital role in our flourishing Jewish community.”

Kimberly Moster, owner of Kimberly Boutique, generously provided the venue for the event, creating a welcoming space for Israeli products to be showcased and enjoyed. Following Ofek’s presentation, guests were treated to Israel-inspired cupcakes made by Baked by Angels and cookies at Mosaic Sun, a charming bohemian-style gift shop in West Hartford center owned by GJWCT member Nancy Cowan. To conclude the evening, attendees received thoughtfully curated goody bags, featuring coupons and gifts generously donated by local West Hartford business owners.

Shop for Israel event at Kimberly Boutique in West Hartford. Courtesy photo

With international travel to Israel hindered by ongoing conflict, Moscovich and his business partner, Andrew Keene, developed an innovative approach to connecting Israeli artisans with global shoppers. Their platform recreates the “Carmel Market Effect,” allowing customers to meet sellers virtually through videos and stories. This model not only supports small businesses financially but also fosters meaningful connections between buyers and makers.

Moscovich emphasized, “Esek shifts the narrative from Israelis being recipients of donations to a dynamic of mutual respect and value. Through these exchanges, everyone gains something meaningful.”

Shop for Israel event at Kimberly Boutique in West Hartford. Courtesy photo

For more information about Grassroots Jewish Women of Connecticut, please email [email protected]. To explore and purchase products from Esek, visit http://www.esek.biz.  Free shipping is available, and all orders will arrive in time for the holidays.

Shop for Israel event at Kimberly Boutique in West Hartford. Courtesy photo

Shop for Israel event at Kimberly Boutique in West Hartford. Courtesy photo

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