November

2024

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Supporting Immigrants & Refugees During Uncertain Times

These are uncertain times for many of our clients—immigrants, refugees, and those who rely on federal safety net programs. At JFCS East Bay, we’re responding with unwavering commitment. Between now and January 20, we’ll resettle at least 210 refugees, with new families arriving weekly. Our Immigration Legal Services team is managing a surge of calls and visits from "nervous clients" seeking updates on their applications while preparing legal clinics and "Know Your Rights" sessions to provide vital support.

Register Now

Learn more at our

Community Briefing.

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Show your support today

by donating here.

JFCS East Bay News

Safety & Support: Standing Together Against Domestic Violence

Hello Friend,,


As we navigate a time of growing challenges and immense opportunity, I want to reflect on the strength we create together at JFCS East Bay. From the ongoing housing crisis to the uncertainty faced by immigrants and refugees in our community, the need for stability, safety, and hope has never been more urgent.


With housing costs continuing to rise, many families, seniors, and new Americans are left grappling with profound uncertainty. At the same time, recent policy shifts and proposals have brought renewed challenges for immigrants and refugees striving to build a better future. But amidst these trials, our work shines hope and resilience for the communities we serve.


At JFCS East Bay, we are rolling up our sleeves and standing together to address these urgent needs head-on. Through our housing assistance programs, legal support for immigrants, mental health services, and advocacy efforts, we’re creating pathways to stability and dignity for all. And we’re doing this work with love—welcoming strangers, reuniting families, and healing what is broken.


In this newsletter, you’ll find stories of resilience from our clients, updates on our collaborations with housing and immigrant advocacy organizations, and ways to get involved. Together, we can create a future where everyone—regardless of their background—has a safe place to call home and the opportunity to thrive.


Thank you for showing up, standing up, and acting with love. Your partnership fuels this vital work.


With gratitude,

Robin Mencher

Chief Executive Officer

Get to Know JFCS East Bay

Program Highlight: Building Stability and Hope: Addressing the Refugee Housing Crisis

The housing crisis in the East Bay presents urgent challenges for the most vulnerable in our community, including refugees who arrive with little more than hope for a safer future. At JFCS East Bay, we are committed to standing with refugees, providing immediate housing support and the resources they need to build stable lives.


Our Resettlement team works tirelessly to ensure that every refugee we serve has a safe place to call home. From emergency shelter to securing permanent housing, we are there every step of the way. This critical work is not just about finding a roof over someone’s head—it’s about creating a foundation for opportunity and belonging.


Read more here.

Client Success: 

Rahimi Family Rebuilds Lives Amid Housing Crisis

When the Rahimi family arrived in Concord, CA, in April 2024, they hoped to rebuild their lives with stability and dignity. Through the Afghan Community Support (ACS) program, they’ve made great progress despite ongoing housing challenges.


Mr. Rahimi, a skilled agricultural pest control specialist, secured a job with Contra Costa County earning $27 per hour, thanks to ACS’s resume and interview support. Mrs. Rahimi, a former teacher, is training as a teacher’s assistant and preparing to support Dari-speaking students at Pleasant Hill Elementary.


Read more here.

Staff Spotlight:

Mai Vang, Housing Specialist, Refugee and Resettlement Housing

Mai Vang’s journey with JFCS East Bay comes full circle—from refugee to Housing Specialist—where she now supports new arrivals in finding safe homes. Drawing on her own experience, Mai passionately helps others navigate the challenges of resettling. “This work allows me to give back to the community that once embraced me,” she shares.


In her role, Mai coordinates housing placements for refugee families, ensuring a stable foundation for them to rebuild their lives. She manages relationships with landlords, conducts housing assessments, and educates clients on tenant rights. Mai also expands JFCS East Bay’s housing network by partnering with community stakeholders.


Read more here.

JFCS East Bay in the Community

Community Leader Spotlight: 

Ashlee Rountree, Housing First Co-Manager at RCF Connects

Ashlee Rountree, Housing First Co-Manager at Richmond Community Foundation Connects (RCF Connects), is a driving force in addressing homelessness in our community. 


With a background in social work and a passion for social justice, Ashlee focuses on empowering marginalized youth and families to achieve stability and rebuild their lives.


Ashlee’s work is rooted in compassion and cultural humility, ensuring that the people she supports feel seen and respected. She helps young people navigate the challenges of finding and maintaining permanent housing while fostering partnerships with landlords and community organizations to create sustainable housing solutions.


Read more here.

Community Partner Highlight:

Fit to be Hired

At JFCS East Bay, we value community partnerships that empower individuals facing barriers to stability and opportunity. This month, we’re proud to spotlight Fit to be Hired, an organization dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities and other challenges secure meaningful employment.


Fit to be Hired provides personalized support, including resume building, interview coaching, and job readiness training, while offering long-term guidance to ensure job retention and career growth. Their person-centered approach tailors services to each participant’s unique strengths, building confidence and fostering success.


Read more here.

Take Action

Giving Tuesday: Your Generosity Changes Lives

This Giving Tuesday, every dollar you donate will be matched up to $25,000, thanks to the generosity of Diana Cohen and Bill Falik.


Together, we can accelerate refugee resettlement and immigration asylum cases before January 20th, providing stability, hope, and opportunity for those starting anew in our community.

Donate to Double your impact!

Standing Up for Our Community

December 5, 2024 | 5:00 – 6:00 PM | Zoom Gathering

Register Now!

Join us for "Standing Up for Our Community"

a virtual Zoom gathering featuring JFCS East Bay staff and a National expert discussing changing US policies & implications for immigrants, refugees, and social safety nets in the East Bay.


Learn how you can get involved in advocacy efforts, volunteer, and support your local community.

Sign Up for CalFresh: Food Support is Here!

With food costs on the rise, CalFresh offers critical support to Alameda County residents. This program provides monthly benefits to help eligible individuals and families afford nutritious food.


CalFresh not only assists with food costs but also connects you to additional resources that promote long-term well-being. Eligibility depends on factors like income and household size, and we’re here to help you navigate the process.


For more information, contact:

Frances Hartwell, Office Manager/Receptionist

Email: fhartwell@jfcs-eastbay.org


Don’t wait—take advantage of this vital resource today!

ART OF LIVING 2025

We are excited to announce the return of Art of Living 2025! Mark your calendars for Sunday, April 6, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. at Temple Isaiah in Lafayette.


This year, we are honored to welcome Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Nicholas Kristof as our featured speaker. Kristof’s powerful journalism and commitment to global human rights will make for an inspiring and thought-provoking evening.

Your support of JFCS East Bay is more important than ever. We invite you to join us as a family or business sponsor for our 18th annual fundraiser. Sponsorship details will be available soon.


Stay tuned for more information on how you can be a part of this special event.


For sponsorship inquiries or questions, please contact:

Shelley Waits at swaits@jfcs-eastbay.org


We look forward to celebrating with you in April!

Community Events

November

28

ThrivePath Public Health Conference (online)

This conference aims to foster collaboration, innovation, and knowledge sharing. It will focus on strategies to enhance system resilience.

December

1

Sunday is Family Day! (Berkeley) 

Every Sunday, families are invited to Triple Rock Brewing for a day of food and fun. The brewery offers games, coloring books, and crafts to keep kids entertained, while adults can relax with a drink and catch the latest game on one of seven TVs.

December

4

Donate and Doughnuts! (Walnut Creek)

We'd love to meet you at our upcoming info session and furniture donation drop-off! We are collecting gently used furniture to distribute to the clients we serve. Email volunteers@jfcs-eastbay.org to RSVP!

December

5

Virtual Gathering on Immigration Policy (online)

Join us for "Taking Stock", a virtual community gathering to discuss the future of U.S. immigration policies and their impact on refugees and immigrants. 

December

6

Oakland First Fridays - Soulful Fridays! (Oakland)

Guests can explore one-of-a-kind gifts crafted by local artists and retailers, enjoy captivating performances, and indulge in delicious treats that reflect Oakland’s rich and vibrant culture.

December

18

Family Resource Navigators Abilities Sensory Group (Oakland)

Families are invited to participate in a fun, enriching playgroup designed for children with developmental delays, disabilities, or special health care needs.

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