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JFS welcomed nearly 100 students to our annual Back-to-School Event at St. Basil Seminary - a fun and empowering day designed to help children start the school year with the supplies and confidence they need to succeed.
Thanks to the generosity of our community, students were able to personally select their school supplies, turning what could be a stressful experience into one with dignity, choice, and excitement.
We extend our gratitude to Neighbor to Neighbor, Round Hill Community Church, First County Bank, and the many individual donors whose generosity made this event possible. We are also deeply thankful to our dedicated volunteers, including teams from ICON International and Brunswick School, as well as our community partners and St. Basil Seminary for hosting us on their beautiful campus.
“When a child walks into school on the first day, they should feel excited about what lies ahead, not worried about whether they have what they need,” said Rachel Kornfeld, JFS CEO. “Giving children the opportunity to choose their own supplies may seem like a small thing, but that choice creates dignity, confidence, and a sense of belonging. This is what community looks like when we come together to make sure every child has the opportunity to start the year feeling ready. It's inspiring to see our community come together to ensure local students have the tools they need to learn and succeed.”
Thank you to everyone who helped make this event a success and ensured students are ready for the year ahead.
Click here to view photos from our Back-to-School Event!
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Thanks to funding made available through Governor Lamont and the Connecticut General Assembly’s Federal Cuts Response Fund, JFS has secured enough funding to provide 144 immigrant households in New London County each month with access to free, fresh food through June 2027.
The funding, administered through United Way of Connecticut, is part of the State of Connecticut’s response to federal changes impacting SNAP and increasing food insecurity among vulnerable families.
When an unexpected food delivery challenge arose, JFS Program Assistant Wisnel Toussaint was able to utilize a truck he had secured through programs under the Norwich Community Development Corporation (NCDC), demonstrating how community partners can maximize their individual resources to expand services and strengthen support for local families.
Through this support, JFS is helping to close the SNAP gap for immigrant families in Southeastern Connecticut, ensuring that those facing the loss or reduction of food assistance continue to have access to healthy food when they need it most.
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Significant changes to U.S. immigration procedures are creating new challenges for asylum seekers and other immigrants. Our team continues to provide critical legal guidance to vulnerable individuals navigating an increasingly complex system.
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a new policy that will gradually require certain immigration applications to be filed electronically. While intended to modernize processing, the change may create barriers for individuals who lack reliable internet access, digital literacy, or the resources needed to navigate online filing systems. Although waiver options will be available in limited circumstances, applicants must complete additional paperwork and, in some cases, pay extra fees to request permission to file on paper.
At the same time, USCIS is implementing stricter procedures for affirmative asylum applicants beginning August 21. Individuals seeking asylum will face heightened requirements for rescheduling interviews and biometrics appointments, needing to demonstrate "exceptional circumstances" to avoid serious consequences. Missed appointments may now result in dismissal of an asylum application or referral to immigration court. Applicants must also submit all supporting evidence at least 14 days before their interview, with late submissions potentially excluded from consideration.
These changes increase the importance of timely legal assistance and careful case management. For many asylum seekers, a missed notice, technical obstacle, or filing error can have life-altering consequences. As policies continue to evolve, JFS helps to ensure that individuals and families seeking safety have access to trusted legal guidance, accurate information, and advocacy when they need it most.
JFS will continue standing with our clients as we help our clients navigate these new challenges and pursue protection, stability, and hope for the future.
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As summer ends, returning to school can bring both excitement and anxiety. New teachers, academic expectations, and changes in routine can feel overwhelming, but predictable daily schedules help children feel more secure and prepared.
Start adjusting bedtime and wake-up times one to two weeks before school begins. Consistent routines, such as preparing backpacks, choosing clothes, eating breakfast, and limiting screen time before bed, can reduce stress and support healthy sleep.
Involving children in back-to-school preparations can also boost their confidence. They can help choose supplies, organize a workspace, or create a morning checklist. It is also important to make space for conversations about their feelings and offer reassurance when worries arise.
Remember that adjustment takes time. Consistency, flexibility, and family support can help children settle into the school year. If anxiety, sleep difficulties, physical complaints, or school avoidance persist, the Bennett Center for Behavioral Health can help. Click here to fill out a confidential intake form.
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A trauma-informed psychotherapy group for women navigating life transitions while strengthening boundaries, self-expression, and relational health.
Location will be either Greenwich or New Canaan YMCA | Date/Time TBD
Click here for information or to register, email Helen Campbell or Nicole Franchella
All insurance plans accepted.
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During one of the most difficult weeks of her life, an older adult client found herself alone in a hospital room, far from family and facing an uncertain future. Yet she was not truly alone.
Our Bikur Cholim volunteer visited her with a prayer and compassionate conversation. Their presence brought comfort during a time of fear and isolation. Later, she shared something we will never forget: "I didn't feel alone because of JFS."
In moments of illness and uncertainty, a simple act of kindness can make all the difference. We are grateful for our Bikur Cholim volunteers, who bring comfort and connection when they are needed most.
Interested in helping others during difficult times? JFS will soon offer a Bikur Cholim Volunteer Training. Email Jayme Schneider for more information.
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Shabbat Services: Fridays at 1:00 pm via Zoom
Jewish Health & Healing Service: Please note: The service will pause for July and August and resume on September 14.
For more information or to receive the Zoom link, please email Jayme Schneider.
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