This summer marked the fourth year of partnership between JFS and Greenwich Country Day School (GCDS), bringing nearly 30 children together for two weeks of learning, creativity, and connection at the French Farm.

Led by the GCDS Center for Public Good, the program offered hands-on experiences including gardening, cooking, arts and crafts, science activities, music, sports, and caring for farm animals. Each day gave children the opportunity to build new skills, make friends, and gain confidence in a supportive environment.

The two-week program concluded with a special celebration, giving participants a chance to reflect on the memories they made and friendships they formed. We are deeply grateful to Jen Donnalley, the GCDS staff, students, alumni, volunteers, and JFS interns whose enthusiasm and dedication helped make this year's program another tremendous success.

The joy, curiosity, and connections fostered throughout the program are a testament to the power of community partnerships, and we look forward to seeing the impact continue long after summer ends.

Click here to watch a video from the program.

To mark Ukraine's Independence Day, JFS hosted a special afternoon of art and solidarity in support of Ukrainian troops at Ferguson Library. Community members created artwork and wrote heartfelt messages of encouragement to be shared with those serving on the front lines.

The event offered a meaningful way for participants to express support, foster connection, and stand with the Ukrainian community through creativity, hope, and compassion.

Several recent immigration policy changes have created new obstacles for immigrants and asylum seekers:

• A significant change affects immigrants who travel outside the United States with government permission known as "advance parole." A recent federal immigration court decision reversed a longstanding policy and may now subject some individuals, including DACA recipients, to a 10-year bar on obtaining legal status after traveling abroad. 

• Another decision makes it harder for immigrants in detention to secure legal representation. Immigration judges will now have greater authority to deny repeated requests for additional time to find an attorney, potentially forcing some individuals to attend critical court hearings without legal counsel.

• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has also announced plans to expand mandatory online filing for immigration applications, which could create additional hurdles for those with limited internet access, language barriers, or difficulty navigating digital systems.

• Applicants must demonstrate exceptional circumstances to reschedule asylum interviews or fingerprinting appointments. Missing an appointment could lead to dismissal of an application or referral to immigration court. New deadlines for submitting evidence increases the importance of timely legal assistance and case preparation.

Amid these challenges, families received some welcome news on August 21. In CLINIC v. Rubio, a federal court struck down a policy that had suspended immigrant visa issuance for people from 75 countries. The policy had separated spouses, parents, children, and loved ones while disrupting lawful pathways to family reunification. The lawsuit was brought by the Catholic Legal Immigration Network (CLINIC), of which JFS Greenwich is a proud affiliate. 

Taken together, these developments highlight both the growing challenges facing immigrant communities and the importance of continued advocacy. As immigration policies become more restrictive and complex, nonprofit organizations and legal service providers such as JFS play an increasingly critical role in helping families understand their rights, navigate the system, and remain together. 

Why Your Brain Needs a Break: The Mental Health Benefits of Unplugging

In today's always-connected world, constant notifications, breaking news alerts, emails, and social media updates can leave us feeling stressed, distracted, and mentally exhausted. Taking intentional breaks from technology can help reduce anxiety, improve focus, and create space for meaningful connections with family, friends, and ourselves. Whether it's setting boundaries around screen time, spending more time outdoors, or creating moments of quiet each day, small changes can have a significant impact on overall well-being.

Join a supportive group for those navigating separation or divorce. Connect with others facing similar challenges in a safe, respectful space focused on healing and growth. Whether you’re newly separated, recently divorced, or working to move forward, you’ll find understanding and support.

Click here for more information, or to register, please email us.

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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THANK YOU FOR GENEROUSLY SUPPORTING JFS OF GREENWICH!

Jewish Family Services of Greenwich

67 Holly Hill Lane | Greenwich, CT 06830

203-622-1881 | info@jfsgreenwich.org | www.jfsgreenwich.org