Life in Europe today presents stark challenges for the Jewish community. For young Jewish adults just starting out on their own, the hurdles can be daunting. But Moishe House, now expanded to two residences in Paris thanks to support from UJA-Federation of New York, offers a place for Jewish 20-somethings to find a lively community on their terms. A third Moishe House in France, also supported by UJA, is in the planning stages.

Other supporters include UJA’s beneficiary the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee, as well as Fonds Social Juif Unifie, Fondation pour la Memoire de la Shoah, Fondation du Judaisme Francais, and Moishe House’s Global Community Fund.

Moishe House, which has 86 houses in 20 countries, is based on a simple model. It brings together three to five young adults to create a home that becomes a hub of Jewish life for their peers through hosting about five diverse events a month.

“We’re developing a safe place to be creative and explore our Jewish identity,” says Morane, a resident at Moishe House Paris-Beaubourg, which opened this March. “We’re reaching people who might not otherwise be reached by the Jewish community.”

Recent activities Morane and her fellow residents have hosted include yoga classes and a Purim celebration.

“A number of young Jews are choosing to leave the country,” she says. “We’re trying to create something so people staying in the country will find a place that’s welcoming and open, and where people can be Jewish and French.”

In just a short time, Moishe House Paris residences are already well on their way to empowering young Jews to fight fear and create a meaningful Jewish life.