This week, JFS' Senior Services in collaboration with the East Brunswick Jewish Center (EBJC) and the Jewish Federation in the Heart of NJ hosted the last Hazak event of the 2022-2023 season. Along with the delicious kosher dinner, the highlight of the evening was a special presentation by guest speaker, Larry Wolfert who delved into the life and legacy of the iconic comedian Joan Rivers. With wit, humor, and profound insight, Larry took the audience on a journey through Joan Rivers' remarkable career, sharing anecdotes, behind-the-scenes stories, and timeless comedic moments. The audience was left both inspired and entertained, reminded of the power of laughter to transcend boundaries and distract from life’s everyday struggles.

Hazak is open to all active adults (55+) interested in coming together to enjoy a kosher meal and meet neighbors and community members in a warm, welcoming setting. This monthly program is not possible without the collaborative efforts of EBJC, the Jewish Federation in the Heart of NJ and JFS' Senior Services. Each organization helps bring this event to fruition, recognizing the importance of fostering a sense of belonging and unity across communities. The events are meant to help older adults gather, enjoy a kosher meal and celebrate the richness of their cultural heritage.

Mark your calendars for the 2023-2024 Hazak season which kicks off with a special dinner on September 21st. View the 2023-2024 EBJC Hazak dates. For more information on how to register or to learn how you can help, email office@jfsmiddlesex.org or call 732-777-1940. If you would like to make a donation to JFS' Senior Services, save time and donate online at www.jfsmiddlesex.org/donate.

On June 14th the Women's Center at JFS hosted a nutrition workshop, Taste the Rainbow of Summer, where Registered Dietician Maryrose Agel reviewed the summer harvest by color, highlighting the benefits of adding a rainbow of fruits and vegetables to your diet. From red tomatoes to orange sweet potatoes, yellow squash to green avocado, and purple eggplant to blueberries, each color provides unique nutrients that boost your health.

To help you incorporate these colorful gems into your meals, Dietician Maryrose shared some easy, delicious recipes. Want a refreshing snack? Try watermelon and feta skewers with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Looking for a savory side dish? Roast some rainbow carrots with a sprinkle of herbs. Craving something sweet? Make a tangy Strawberry Salsa - view  recipe here or learn 12 ways to use blueberries.

Attendees also participated in a raffle -- one lucky winner left with a kitchen essentials basket filled with tools to make food prep easier. Here's to a summer of colorful and nutritious meals!

The JFS Women’s Center helps individuals who are trying to become economically self-sufficient after the loss of a partner through divorce, separation or death, or after a partner becomes disabled. Contact us for more information: womenscenter@jfsmiddlesex.org. Consider making a donation online to help the JFS Women’s Center bring much-needed support to those working on making a better life for themselves and their families.

This month, JFS joined other key senior service providers at Saint Peter's Adult Community Health & Wellness Fairs across six Middlesex County locations. These events were aimed at older adults, providing them with valuable information about various services available to them in the community. JFS' Director of Volunteer Services and Coordinator of Middlesex County’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) Michelle Beley-Bianco talked with attendees about JFS' senior services and volunteer opportunities.

Be sure to visit us at the next event scheduled on July 12th at Clearbrook Health Fair in Monroe. For more information, email office@jfsmiddlesex.org.