Due to the federal government shutdown, nearly everyone who relies on SNAP benefits has lost food funding—and we don’t know how long this will last. Families, older adults, veterans, and individuals in our community are facing unprecedented food insecurity.

Thanks to your incredible generosity, we surpassed our original goal of $10,000 in less than 24 hours! But the need is greater than ever. Our hope was to provide emergent support—now we must ensure families can sustain themselves throughout this crisis.

We’ve set a new goal: $50,000 to provide grocery gift cards and emergency food assistance for as long as needed. Every extra donation means more families fed.

Here’s how you can help:

• Click here to donate online
• Bring gift cards to JFS at 67 Holly Hill Lane, Greenwich or 257 Main Street, 5th Floor, Norwich 

Each dollar and card turns hunger into hope. Thank you!

The JFS Legacy and Leadership Breakfast was a warm and meaningful gathering to honor former board members whose leadership helped shape the agency’s foundation and mission. The event brought together past and present board members and staff for a morning of connection, reflection, and appreciation.

CEO Rachel Kornfeld shared updates on how JFS has grown and evolved to meet the changing needs of the community, From expanded mental health services to intensive case management and workforce development, the agency continues to build on the legacy of those who served before.

“This breakfast was our way of saying thank you,” said Kornfeld. “The dedication of our former board members continues to inspire our work and strengthen our impact.”

The informal event emphasized the power of community and the lasting value of compassionate leadership.

Christopher Kelley leads the JFS Immigration Legal Services program with a deep sense of purpose and compassion. His journey into immigration law began with personal experience, navigating visa issues while living abroad, which sparked a desire to help others facing far more complex circumstances. With a master’s degree in Migration Studies and a law degree, Christopher chose a path where he could make a direct and lasting impact.

Since joining JFS, Christopher has built a thriving legal team with two additional attorneys and five paralegals, serving over 1,600 clients. The work comes with challenges, especially the ever-changing immigration policies that have affected many clients from Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela. Nevertheless he finds meaning in helping families stay together, defending clients’ rights, and witnessing the transformation that comes with receiving legal status or work authorization. “Even a temporary work permit can change someone’s life,” he says.

Chris also enjoys family time, community events, and leading social justice initiatives at Temple Israel in Croton-on-Hudson.

Christopher’s leadership, empathy, and drive continue to strengthen the role of JFS as a trusted resource for those navigating the immigration system, and remind us all of the power of advocacy rooted in compassion.

JFS recently assisted a Ukrainian single mother who recently returned to Connecticut with her children. They came back with very few belongings and needed basic household items to get settled.

Thanks to quick coordination and teamwork—especially from JFS Volunteer Coordinator, Melissa Basile-Reolon, we gathered and delivered essential items to help them feel supported and welcomed.

It was a meaningful reminder of the impact we can make when we come together to serve others.

This meaningful and empowering group experience focuses on coping with antisemitism—a rising concern in the media, on campuses, and in our communities—stirring anger, fueling anxiety, and creating anxiety. The group meets every other Wednesday, beginning November 5 through January 7, from 7-8:30 pm. Click here for more information.

JFS is collecting non-perishable foods like stuffing, canned veggies, and cranberry sauce to help families enjoy a festive holiday meal. Your donation brings comfort and care to those in need. Email Melissa Basile-Reolon if you would like to donate.

Help keep our neighbors warm this winter! JFS is collecting new or gently used coats for children and adults in need. Email Melissa Basile-Reolon to make a difference.

Help homebound older adults remain in their homes by providing personalized grocery shopping and delivery. Interested in volunteering? Contact Beth Jabick, Director of Volunteer Services.

Accompany older adults and individuals with disabilities to non-emergency medical appointments. Volunteers offer door-through-door support to ensure the safety and care that all deserve. Interested in volunteering? Contact Beth Jabick, Director of Volunteer Services

Shabbat Services: Fridays at 1:00 pm via Zoom

Jewish Health & Healing Service: Monday, November 10 at 12:15 pm via Zoom

For more information or to receive the Zoom link, please email Jayme Schneider.

Let’s Stay Connected—Follow Us on Social Media!

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