Nationally, one out of every four older adults in the US does not have a bed to sleep in every night. More than seventeen million older adults are financially insecure, living right on the cusp of homelessness. While the cost of rent, medicine, and everyday living expenses continue to rise, many older adults live on a fixed income and struggle to afford these increases. No one deserves to live like this. How can we best help our older adult community live in dignity and safety?

At JFCS, our Older Adult Services department strives to provide the highest standard of care for our elderly clients. Through case management, socialization programs, and access to our full suite of services (such as our food pantry and psychotherapy), we aim to promote a healthy and meaningful life for every single older adult who needs our help. We are excited to announce one of our newest initiatives that aligns with that goal. A local nonprofit with which we have partnered for years recently sponsored new affordable senior housing in Teaneck. They erected this new apartment building right down the block from our Teaneck offices. Five of the units are set aside for seniors who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless, and JFCS will have the privilege of providing case management services to those tenants once they move in.

A couple of weeks ago, we were able to place a pair of our case management clients in one of these apartments. A husband and wife, both Holocaust Survivors, had been steadily declining in health and needed support. When they came to JFCS for assistance, their case manager helped them receive an array of essential services (including Kosher Meals on Wheels, access to our food pantry, dental care, and a home health aide). They were living in an apartment, but due to inflation and the overall rise in the cost of living, they would not be able to afford that apartment for much longer. Fortunately, JFCS was able to help them apply for one of the five units, and they were accepted. They were overjoyed and simply said, "It feels like magic."

We are determined to bring this magical feeling to all of our clients. This is done through hard work, diligence, and a broadening network of partners who enable us to provide premium care to the most vulnerable in our community. Regardless of your situation, JFCS is here for you.