Summer approaches, and with it the next phase of our lives during this pandemic. Where some aspects of life may be re-opening, we know there are still significant challenges. The summer months can be a difficult time for families who rely on school provided meals for their children. JFCS is preparing for an increase in demand for food and continuing our partnerships with the local schools to ensure needs are met over the coming months. We also recognize summer activities will not be as robust as previous years and will continue to provide engagement and service opportunities for our youth as well as more virtual events for all.

What are we doing right now?


  • One of the JFCS Mobile Food Pantry stops last week was made possible through a network of partnership. The stop was at Town Center Elementary School in Plainsboro. The stop was the 3rd sponsored by Firmenich through an emergency grant and further supported by the generosity of the West Windsor Plainsboro Teachers Association and a generous 4th grade class at Millstone River School. The class collects money at the holidays which is then pooled to support a local organization that addresses hunger. This year, the teachers and class wanted to ensure the money could directly support students in their district who may be more in need due to COVID19.
  • Join this Wednesday, June 17 at 3 PM for our virtual event "Craft a Calming/Sensory Jar" Julie Bond, LAMFT, will lead the activity and share tips on how these jars can be used for all ages as a mindful, calming activity. Materials list sent with registration confirmation. Register now!

  • Next Thursday, June 25 at 6 PM join for our next Community Webinar "How to Develop Emotional Resilience." Teri Cheresnick, LCSW, LCADC will lead the discussion about emotional resilience, what it is and how we can better develop our own emotional resilience to life’s stressors. Join by following the link or call in at 1-312-626-6799 and enter Webinar ID: 964 8345 2223.  

  • As businesses and activities re-open, anxieties can build surrounding how to safely re-enter work, dining and entertainment spaces. Mental health and self-care are more important than ever as we navigate the next phase. Connect with a JFCS counselor during "Drop-in" Hours. You can connect one-on-one with a counselor who can provide personalized tips and support. Drop-In hours will be Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays 10 AM - 12 PM, Tuesday & Thursdays 5 - 7 PM. Call us at 609-987-8100 and Dial 0.

What is in the works?
  • We'll be introducing interactive, virtual events in addition to our weekly webinars which will continue to support your mental health needs while providing a forum for connection and discussion with other community members.

What can you do?
  • If you are looking for a way to give back and are interested in our volunteer opportunities, contact Eden Aaronson at EdenA@jfcsonline.org.
  • If you or someone you know needs emergency food - call us.
  • If you or someone you know could benefit from our counseling support - call us.

Our Resource Page i s a wealth of knowledge blog posts from our team and new links to resources.
As our fiscal year comes to an end on June 30, we are looking at our year ahead and anticipating how the impact of COVID19 will continue in the months to come. If you can make a donation, consider a contribution today. Each dollar donated is worth even more when it means we can reach another person, another family, another senior in need.