Agency Leadership

People often say to me, “It’s August, so things must be quiet at JF&CS, right?” 

Nope—not by a long shot! 

Issues related to parenting, mental health, aging and disabilities don’t go away in the summer. In fact, they are frequently exacerbated by shifts in rhythms and routines. And with continued changes in the government landscape, this summer we have fielded an extraordinary number of calls from people seeking assistance with food, benefits, housing, and other basic needs.  

Demand for Basic Needs assistance has grown 25% year-over-year so far, with 164 more instances of need. We’ve also enrolled a record number of Holocaust survivors—with more than 61 additional survivors reaching out for support since the start of the spring, the result of proactive community outreach to this aging community. 

No, I can promise you, things aren’t quiet at JF&CS 

And thanks to you we can make the summer count. 

The stories in this issue offer a glimpse of summer at JF&CS—and the impact of that work for the many months ahead. Whether delivering groceries, helping parents prepare for a new school year, ushering in the new year with an inclusive celebration, or planning for the future with the support of dedicated volunteer leaders, our work continues because life continues. 

Thank you for helping us be there for our community in every season. 

Sincerely,