HAPPY LABOR DAY!

AUGUST 31, 2025

For the third summer in a row, JFS and Greenwich Country Day School (GCDS) partnered to create a joyful and enriching experience for JFS youth clients at the French Farm. Over the course of two weeks, nearly 20 children from refugee and immigrant families participated in a vibrant program filled with creativity, learning, and fun.

Led by Jen Donnalley, Director of the GCDS Center for Public Good, the curriculum included gardening, music, cooking, science experiments, feeding chickens, arts & crafts, and sports. Older children prepared daily lunches—while everyone contributed to sweet treats like cupcakes and homemade ice cream.

The final day was a BBQ celebration. Each child created a keepsake scrapbook filled with photos and memories from their time at the farm.

One mom shared, “I’ve never seen my daughter so happy. She came home every day full of stories—and tears when it ended.”

We are deeply grateful to Jen Donnalley, the GCDS staff, alumni, students, and our dedicated JFS volunteers and interns for making this summer at the French Farm a truly magical experience.

Wishing students across Connecticut a safe and wonderful school year ahead!

Click here to watch the slideshow.

As students head back to school, JFS is helping families prepare for more than just academics. At the Bennett Center for Behavioral Health, we offer compassionate mental health care to support children, teens, and families through the emotional ups and downs of the new school year.

With over 600 active clients and partnerships in 14 public schools across Greenwich, Norwalk, and Stamford, JFS provides therapy, school-based support, and specialized programs tailored to youth and family needs.

JFS Clinician Benson Casimir shares tips for supporting kids this fall as they return to school:

• Build structure and discipline: Help kids set small weekly goals to foster consistency and a sense of accomplishment.

• Reinforce determination: Praise effort over outcomes to build resilience and confidence.

• Model calm at home: Children absorb the energy around them—showing emotional regulation and healthy routines helps them manage stress.

If you are interested in therapy, please click here to complete our confidential form.

The Teacher Memorial Middle School (TMMS) back-to-school event was a wonderful success, bringing together students, families, community members, and local organizations to kick off the school year with energy and support.

JFS hosted an information and resource table, distributing backpacks, school supplies, toiletries, and other essentials to help students start the year prepared and confident.



We are proud to be part of a community that shows up for its youth—and we’re excited for a great school year ahead!

"I am so grateful to JFS for the support they’ve given my children and me. Honestly, I don’t know how we would have made it without you. I can finally sleep peacefully knowing my children are safe. That is priceless." -JFS Client

Support homebound Greenwich seniors with personalized grocery shopping and delivery—helping them stay independent.

Accompany seniors and individuals with disabilities to non-emergency medical appointments. Volunteers provide door-through-door support—JFS schedules the trips. Meet clients at their homes and stay through their appointments.

Interested in volunteering? Contact Beth Jabick, Director of Volunteer Services

Are you a college student looking to gain meaningful experience while making a difference? We’re seeking interns to support our Immigration Support Services, Older Adult Services, Administrative Projects, and Community Events this fall.

• Commitment: Minimum of 4 hours, twice a week
• Perks: Possibility of earning college credit
• Start Date: Fall semester

If interested, email Melissa Basile-Reolon.

School starts next week—and JFS needs volunteer drivers!

Help deliver meals and snacks to local schools this summer and throughout the school year. Volunteer drivers pick up and distribute food, helping ensure that every child has access to nutritious meals. Your time can make a real difference in our community! If interested, email Melissa Basile-Reolon to help!

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