Throughout this challenging time, the network of social service agencies and grassroots efforts in the greater Mercer region has truly rallied together to ensure those who are most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic have access to needed resources. The JFCS Mobile Food Pantry has served as a connector for our agency and many new partners across the community. Last week, the Mobile Food Pantry made a delivery to the Panther Pantry in Trenton; this initiative is organized by Trenton teachers and staff to support their students in need. We were truly humbled by their work and their gratitude for our support. After the stop, we received a thank you from the Panther Pantry rep, Taylor Block:
" This week was extremely difficult for the world as a whole, but the healing power of food and your generosity makes moving forward so much easier for our community. What you are doing is directly impacting the community and together we are doing the work. Thank you again and again for help!"
We are proud to serve this community and proud to partner with such incredible organizations.

What are we doing right now?

  • While we could not gather for our traditional Annual Meeting this year, JFCS prepared a video for our "Year in Review." If you have not had the chance to view, we invite you to watch and see how JFCS is making an impact in our community.

  • J Serve Part III is Sunday, June 14! JFCS is partnering with United Way of Greater Mercer County for their Strike Out Hunger initiative. Open to Jewish teens grades 6 - 12. See online registration for more details.

  • The Mobile Food Pantry made 3 stops last week, including to new partners at the Panther Pantry (Trenton), Architects Building (Trenton) and to our ongoing partner Every Child Valued at Eggerts Crossing Village (Lawrenceville). Since March 16, we have served over 3,500 individuals through the on-site and mobile pantry efforts.

  • 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. NJ.com recently highlighted JFCS mental health services calling attention to the need for this emotional support and how JFCS is addressing this need including our Drop-In hours. 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.
JFCS shared our year in review last week in place of our Annual Meeting. 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.