Prince Charles is to become patron of World Jewish Relief's poverty relief project for families in the Ukraine.

The prince will support the WJR Ukrainian Livelihood Development Programme for the next four years.

WJR chair Nigel Layton said: "The Ukrainian Jewish community has suffered unimaginable hardship over the centuries.

"Once one of the most vibrant Jewish communities in the world, today it needs our help and support as Ukraine has been one of the hardest-hit among the countries affected by the economic downturn. We are so very grateful to His Royal Highness for the continuing confidence that he shows in our work."

The WJR programme includes creating job centres to reduce unemployment and providing training and childcare facilities.

A guest at the charity's 2007 dinner, the prince was moved by a video depicting the plight of Ukrainian Jews.

The following year, he and the Duchess of Cornwall opened the Jewish Community Centre in Krakow.