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Dearest Friends of JFS,
Looking back on 2025, I am struck by the juxtaposition of suffering and hope—of heartbreak and accomplishment. That contrast is the essence of our work at JFS. We stand at the intersection of pain and possibility, meeting people in their hardest moments and helping them find a path forward. And this year, our once small organization stepped up, stepped in, and rose to meet unimaginable needs.
Etched in my memory is the Executive Order and subsequent Stop Work Order of January 24, 2025, for JFS refugee resettlement services. This was a moment of disbelief for families who were escaping persecution, only to have safety suddenly snatched away. And yet it was also a call to action—a reminder of who we are. We are a steadfast force for humanity. We planned, we pivoted, we moved forward with intention and courage.
Our community rallied behind us, and not only did our services continue—they expanded. In response to emerging needs across the state, we launched our JFS Norwich satellite site, ensuring that immigrant families in Southeastern Connecticut receive the same high-quality, compassionate care found in Fairfield County. Hundreds of individuals who would have remained isolated and afraid now receive comprehensive case management, legal assistance, and behavioral health support.
Our Bennett Center for Behavioral Health is now embedded in 14 public schools across Fairfield County, ensuring young people have easy access to mental health care. Our clinicians are also present in partner sites across the region—including the YMCA of Greenwich, New Canaan YMCA, Boys & Girls Club of Stamford, Building One Community, and Archangels Greek Orthodox Church. With the addition of medication management and a supervising psychiatrist, our behavioral health services are now comprehensive, deeply person-centered, and designed to meet clients where they are—literally and figuratively.
Every day, our growing team extends its reach through a diverse continuum of programs: our Friendly Fridge and food insecurity initiatives, older adult services, Jewish Health & Healing, immigration support and legal services, Bennett Center for Behavioral Health and more. This year, JFS Greenwich provided over 50,000 points of service—each one an opportunity to change the trajectory of a life.
JFS Greenwich is no longer small. We are resilient. We are courageous. And we will continue to stand up for humanity and say “yes” when it matters most.
As we close the chapter on 2025—a year of both tremendous strain and remarkable strength—I wish you and your loved ones peace, comfort, and renewed hope for a brighter 2026. Thank you for walking beside us, believing in us, and enabling us to serve with compassion, dignity, and unwavering resolve.
With immense gratitude,
Rachel Kornfeld, CEO
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