Spring has finally sprung! Some would say that Summer skipped its turn last week with the rapid rise in temperature, but the calendar tells us that it is still spring. Spring is often associated with new beginnings and rebirth, providing a perfect opportunity to look at our wellness habits and make small yet impactful changes.

One simple change to implement is creating a regular outdoor walking routine. Be sure to make your goals realistic. You don’t have to run a marathon the first day that you go outside. Taking a simple walk through your local park or nature trail will help you get in more sun and steps! Increasing physical activity and sun exposure helps promote wellness of mind, body and spirit. Link up with a friend or family member and make it a weekly outing to connect with nature and others. Don't forget that however far you walk, you'll need to walk the same distance back to your starting point so start with a short walking trail and gradually increase as your endurance grows. 

Take your time and make sure to be kind to yourself and others as you embrace this beautiful season of renewal and growth!

Working Together in Support of Holocaust Survivors

We are honored and grateful for the support of our Jewish Federation in the Heart of NJ in working with us to ensure that Holocaust survivors in Middlesex County are able to age in place at home comfortably and safely after a life marked by trauma and upheaval. 

JFS Middlesex and The Jewish Federation in the Heart of NJ are partners with the Kavod Survivors of the Holocaust Emergency Fund (Kavod SHEF), which supports the 25,000 Holocaust survivors living in poverty in the U.S. Kavod SHEF funds basic emergency needs, including rent, utilities, food, home care, transportation, and medical, dental and vision services. All funds raised go directly to survivors.

JFS’ goal is to work with our Jewish Federation to raise funds locally for the nearly 200 Holocaust Survivors living in Middlesex County, which are matched dollar for dollar by a national fundraising coalition. We are extremely grateful and excited to be working with our Federation and Kavod SHEF to help our survivors age in place with comfort and dignity. Read the full press release.

New Cycle of Citizenship Classes Available

This month, JFS' Project Citizenship started a new 12-week cycle of classes open to lawful permanent residents interested in becoming U.S. citizens. Classes are held across 6 locations including online and at four partner libraries.

Our Citizenship classes are designed to help residents across NJ prepare for the naturalization exam by providing them with the necessary knowledge of American history, government, and civics. Classes are taught by certified, experienced instructors. If you know someone who can benefit from a course, please share our Citizenship flyer.

JFS Women's Center Helps Women Thrive

On April 20th, the JFS Women's Center held an engaging Women's Health Workshop in partnership with the Rutgers School of Nursing. Attendees were empowered with the knowledge and tools to prioritize healthy habits and take control of their physical and mental health.

The highlight of the workshop was an informative presentation by the Rutgers School of Nursing, who shared insights on how to lead a healthier lifestyle. The workshop was a huge success, thanks to the partnership between the JFS Women's Center and the Rutgers School of Nursing. The attendees left feeling inspired and motivated to make positive changes in their lives. Learn more about the Women's Center here.

Helping Seniors Protect Against Medicare Fraud & Abuse

Each week, JFS’ Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP NJ) staff and volunteers travel across NJ to educate Medicare beneficiaries on how to detect and report errors and prevent fraud. This month, SMP was at the Senior Expo hosted by the St. Francis Community Center in Long Beach Island. To learn more about SMP visit our website or contact smp@jfsmiddlesex.org to schedule a free presentation at your site.