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.

A Special Message of Gratitude

As we prepare for Thanksgiving, we give our heartfelt thanks to everyone who supports us and our community. Your kindness, generosity and collaboration mean the world to us and our local families.

At JFS, we are all deeply grateful to our volunteers, staff, board members and community partners who join with us to serve families in need. Wishing you a Thanksgiving filled with health, happiness and joy.

Special thanks to Replenish for its continued support, and to our donors—group and individual—who uphold our mission. Your generosity ensures no one goes without a hearty meal during this special time, and all year long. Together, we embody the spirit of community, offering care and compassion to those in need.

Thank you to St. Joseph High School's Football team who helped with this year's turkey distribution at Replenish.

A Heartfelt Celebration of Love, Commitment, and New Beginnings

We are thrilled to congratulate Mr. and Mrs. P who became U.S. Citizens on November 7th! Over the last few months, this loving duo has been taking JFS' Citizenship Preparation classes at our North Brunswick office. Their journey to Citizenship was a family affair, with their son supporting them and connecting them to JFS.

Mr. and Mrs. P took time from the festivities of Diwali to visit their class, expressing gratitude to their instructor and bringing sweet treats for their classmates. As they relish their new status as U.S. Citizens, we join in their celebration and wish them continued joy, prosperity, and fulfillment on this, their new beginning.

Fall classes are still in session across 8 locations including online; registration is on a rolling basis. To learn more about JFS' Immigration and Citizenship Services, call 732-777-1940 or email office@jfsmiddlesex.org. To sponsor a family working toward U.S. Citizenship, donate online this holiday season. Thank you!

Nourish Well-Being This Thanksgiving

As we prepare for Thanksgiving, the practice of gratitude and togetherness takes on new significance in these challenging times. This year, more than ever, our celebrations hold heightened significance, strengthening bonds and the ties of friendship and family. Beyond the traditional feast, let's intentionally create moments that nourish both our bodies and souls. Here are suggestions for a meaningful Thanksgiving:

1-Gratitude Centerpiece: Make gratitude the heart of your gathering, fostering a positive atmosphere by honoring the value of relationships. Share your grateful heart and encourage others to do the same.

2-Mindful Pauses: Amid holiday chaos, practice mindfulness. Pause to savor flavors, appreciate efforts, and embrace the joy of togetherness.

3-Connect Intentionally: Dive into meaningful discussions, sharing stories and dreams to enhance togetherness and provide support during challenges.

4-Embrace Imperfections: Acknowledge and accept imperfections that arise, be it in the meal preparation or within the dynamics of your family.

5-Unplug and Stay Present: Create a tech-free space, challenging yourself and loved ones to embrace face-to-face conversations and savor the feast distraction-free. By disconnecting, cultivate a more mindful, meaningful holiday experience.

This Thanksgiving, prioritize the essence of gathering and the joy of reuniting with friends or family. Let these meaningful connections guide your celebration, bringing a deeper sense of gratitude and fulfillment to the day.

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Keeping Wellness in Mind is a monthly spotlight to promote wellness. Each month, JFS Counseling Services highlights practices promoting mental and emotional well-being. JFS Counseling Services provides professional behavioral health therapy to assist individuals, couples, and families in addressing life’s challenges. To learn more, call 732-777-1940 or visit www.jfsmiddlesex.org/counseling.

JFS Happenings

Stop by JFS' North Brunswick office on November 30th from 11 AM to 1 PM for a dazzling Jewelry Fundraiser featuring the exquisite creations of Unique Jewelry Designs by Laura Szymczak. Affordable gifts are available in all colors and sizes; custom designs may be delivered upon request. A portion of each sale will be donated to JFS. We look forward to seeing you!

Delight a local child with a special holiday gift by dropping off donations of gift cards or gender-neutral toys at our offices in North Brunswick or Monroe Township, or donate online at www.jfsmiddlesex.org/donate. Help us spread the word by sharing our flyer.

2023 One Community Journal

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.