The holiday of Chanukah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a time for celebration, reflection, and joy. For many older adults, this time of the year can bring a mix of emotions, including loneliness or nostalgia. How can we engage our aging community to create lasting memories and experiences that uplift their spirits? 

At JFCS, our goal is for each of our four pillars of service to bring light into all of our clients' lives every day. This mission is especially vital for the Holocaust survivors we serve. They have experienced immense trauma, and amidst the comprehensive concrete services we provide, it is also our duty to help replenish the joy in their lives. One way we accomplish this is through the special socialization program that brings them together. At our twice-a-month Café Europa, our survivor clients spend quality time with each other, enjoying the company of others who share similar life experiences.

Our most recent Café Europa was our annual Chanukah party, a particular favorite among our attendees. We welcomed 46 survivors, 21 of whom needed transportation which was organized using Uber for Seniors. Dr. David Podles (an acclaimed international concert violinist) entertained our guests while they ate a lovely brunch that included some Chanukah favorites – jelly donuts and latkes! Each guest also received a gift bag that contained gelt (chocolate coins) and dreidels. A special surprise, courtesy of our friends from Flames of Giving, made the afternoon even more exciting with additional gifts for each attendee. All in all, it was a heartwarming event where our Holocaust survivor community had the opportunity to experience the spreading light of joy that is present around Chanukah.

The impact of such events goes beyond just the holiday season. By engaging with our older adult community, we help combat loneliness and isolation, offering companionship and support. This can have significant positive effects on their mental and emotional well-being. During Chanukah and beyond, small gestures of kindness, whether through organized events or simple acts of visiting and sharing a meal, can make a world of difference. Let’s continue to cherish and celebrate our older adults, ensuring that the light of Chanukah shines brightly in their hearts and homes.