A weekly e-newsletter from JFS of Middlesex County

JFS is a non-profit social services agency serving all members of the community from all backgrounds. Your generous support enables us to provide crucial programs for those in need.

Yom HaShoah: Day of Remembrance

This week, many are commemorating Yom HaShoah, also known as Holocaust Remembrance Day. This day is dedicated to remembering the six million Jewish victims and millions of others who were murdered during the Holocaust as well as the bravery of those outside of the Jewish community that fought against genocide. This day serves as an opportunity to educate new generations about the lives lost, the stories of survivors, and acknowledging the role we all play to ensure genocide is stopped throughout the world.

While the Holocaust may be a difficult event to discuss, we can find hope in bringing awareness to the stories and memories of those lost while acknowledging the resilience of today's survivors. At JFS, we are committed to supporting nearly 200 aging survivors who still bear the scars of this traumatic experience. Learn more about JFS Holocaust Survivors Services here.

Press Release:

JFS Middlesex Joins National Effort to Raise Funds for Holocaust Survivors Living in Poverty Across the U.S.

JFS Middlesex has partnered with 40 community organizations across the United States to raise money for the Kavod Survivors of the Holocaust Emergency Fund (Kavod SHEF), which supports the 25,000 Holocaust survivors living in poverty in the country. 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 raise money locally for the nearly 200 Holocaust Survivors living in Middlesex County, which will be matched dollar for dollar by a national fundraising coalition. In 2023, more than $6 million will be allocated across participating communities. With increasing healthcare costs and an aging population, emergency medical services have started making up a growing proportion of aid granted through Kavod SHEF.

We are extremely grateful and excited to be working with Seed the Dream Foundation, the private-grantmaking foundation behind Kavod SHEF, to honor the lives and stories of those who were killed in the Holocaust and to ensure survivors can maintain their dignity in their later years. Read the full press release here.

Café Europa: Connecting Survivors

Café Europa is an important monthly luncheon that brings together Holocaust survivors from the local community. This event provides a wonderful opportunity for survivors to socialize with each other and enjoy live performances while enjoying a delicious, nutritious kosher meal. The event is a beautiful way to honor the resilience and strength of our survivors, providing them with an opportunity to relax and enjoy themselves in a warm and welcoming environment.

If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a volunteer driver to transport survivors to and from the monthly luncheon, contact Michelle Beley-Bianco, Director of Volunteer Services, at 732-777-1940 or email at michelleb@jfsmiddlesex.org.

Sponsor a Gala Ticket for a Holocaust Survivor:

Many of our survivors enjoy getting dressed up for a special event, especially the JFS Annual One Community Gala. Consider sponsoring admission for a Holocaust Survivor to attend the party, a mitzah that will make everyone feel good. Visit www.jfsmiddlesex.org/2023OCGala

Send a Tribute:

Honor someone you love by making a gift to JFS' Holocaust Survivor Services in their name. Your donation will help advance JFS' mission and support our Holocaust Survivor Services to care for nearly 200 Holocaust survivors with home health care, medical and dental services, kosher meals and groceries, transportation, rental assistance and more. Visit www.jfsmiddlesex.org/tribute

You're Cordially Invited!

We're Hiring!

We have full- and part-time positions available.

View job descriptions at: www.jfsmiddlesex.org/employment

Send résumé/C.V. & cover letter to office@jfsmiddlesex.org

Jewish Social Service Committee

The Jewish Social Service Committee is a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting Jewish residents in Middlesex County. The Committee provides financial assistance for a wide variety of issues. In service for over 100 years, they have no paid staff and all funds are committed to providing service. If you or someone you know is in need of financial assistance, contact us at office@jfsmiddlesex.org or 732.777.1940. JFS is proud to partner with JSS to benefit our mutual clients.