Posted by Wendy Schiffman Wilsker

When we rebranded our Annual Report, Impacting Lives, last year, we imagined a report to our investors, recognizing our community of supporters, sharing our financials, and reflecting on the impact of our work in the prior year.

This year, Impacting Lives will share the story of our work on the frontlines, supporting our community during the COVID-19 crisis and in creating a more just and equal society. And while we will report on our Fiscal Year 19 (October 1, 2018 - September 30, 2019), we will also share how we are supporting our community in the moment.

In the past few months, we have been truly overwhelmed by the generosity of our donors and volunteers. Within one week of asking for help, over 60 new volunteers signed up to pack and deliver groceries for our Family Table food pantry. Since early April, we have distributed 1,300 handmade “Thinking of You” cards to our older adult clients, designed by families, school groups, and caring individuals. Additionally, we have raised more than $1 million in response to our Caring During Crisis campaign.

While many in our community turn to JF&CS for help and support, nearly 5,000 of you turn to JF&CS to give back through time, talent, and treasure. We are fortunate to live in a community where tikkun olam, or “repairing the world,” is a part of the fabric of our identity. Because of you, thousands of people have the support they need to care for themselves and their families.

We hope that you are inspired as you read the impact of your generosity. We look forward to a time in the near future when we can gather in person and share our gratitude. Until then, my personal thanks are beyond measure.

Read all of our Impacting Lives articles.