Accelerating Social, Academic and Health Equity
| |
Monthly Report to the Community | |
|
Dear JFS Friends, Supporters and Collaborative Partners,
We hope this finds you and your family well, and that your 2025 is off to a great start. In our first eNewslettter of the new year, we are pleased to share with you the JFS 2024 Report to the Community:
| |
|
As the report reflects, 2024 continued to be a year where innovation and creative solutions to social community challenges were at the forefront of all our efforts in the 3 focus areas of our work: supporting Jewish families; assisting immigrants including refugees and asylum seekers; and our largest growing area of need - helping older adults stay safe and independent in the community.
It has and continues to be a team effort. A major shout out to our committed staff, volunteers, Board members, friends, collaborative partners and all of our faithful supporters. The Report is just a snapshot of our work in 2024. It would take several more pages to really give you a deep understanding of the work and impact we continue to have on the most vulnerable members of our community. There are so many stories of triumph under the most adverse of situations.
We continue to press forward on many important strategic areas with a focus on accelerating social equity, including serving as a community convener in fighting racism and antisemitism, addressing hunger and housing insecurity, caring for isolated, vulnerable older adults and ensuring their safety, assisting immigrant families including refugees and asylum seekers, reducing poverty in the Jewish community, addressing climate change at the local level and being a driver and leader for social innovation in Metrowest. And, we stand ready to assist families that will be adversely affected by changes that the new Federal administration will be implementing.
Please read the Board President and CEO's message on the opening page of the Report for a in-depth view into JFS’s past accomplishments and, more importantly, our future direction.
As highlighted in the Report, there are many ways you can make a meaningful impact in the lives of people who need help the most. Scroll down to learn how you can get more involved with JFS and and work with us to support the needs of our community's most vulnerable members.
We are excited about the future and the families we will empower to thrive. We look forward to another year of partnership, working together to strengthen our community.
Thank you once again for your commitment to and support of JFS,
| |
SUPPORT THE CRISIS RESPONSE FUND | |
|
SUPPORT THE CRISIS RESPONSE FUND NOW
In light of anticipated changes that will be implemented once the new Federal administration takes the reigns on January 20th, JFS is developing rapid-response initiatives, defining urgent funding needs, and strengthening partnerships to protect our community's most vulnerable: low-income Jewish community members, older adults, and immigrants, including refugees and asylum seekers. We face an urgent challenge - protect as many lives as possible, right now, while we still can.
With the support of our donors, JFS provides critical support—housing, food security, legal aid, trauma counseling, and employment assistance— so those in need can rebuild their lives in safety and dignity. Your investment can make an immediate, meaningful difference - click here to learn how.
JFS is uniquely positioned to meet this challenge head-on, however to ensure these families continue receiving the support they need, even as government safety nets unravel, we need your help.
There’s no time to wait. Click here and make your gift today. Together, we can offer safety and hope to those who need it most.
| |
|
Since 1979, JFS has been instrumental in resettling hundreds of refugee families in the Metrowest Greater Boston area. Key to our success has been the involvement of our organizational partners and volunteers who have joined with us to surround these newcomers with the supports they need to acclimate and build a life in our welcoming and caring community.
The demand for these services is at an all time high. In order for JFS to meet the demand, we seek organizational sponsors to provide the ultimate welcome to a newly arrived refugee family.
Sponsors serve as supporters, mentors and teachers and are critical in the process of helping a family adapt to their new surroundings and work towards self-sufficiency. No experience needed – when sponsors partner with JFS they receive the training and ongoing support they need to be successful.
Partner with JFS and be a bridge to a brighter future for a refugee family in need. Click here to learn how you can get involved today.
| |
|
As a partner in the Equity In Education Action Project (funded by the Community Foundation for MetroWest and MathWorks), JFS works with the Framingham Public Schools and Literations Boston to address significant gaps in academic performance.
Through the JFS/FPS Resource Room, JFS provides clothing, footwear and school supplies as well as case management services to the families of students in need so that young learners are equipped to succeed at school.
During the Community Leadership Reception hosted by the Community Foundation for MetroWest, MathWorks received the Foundation’s Community Leadership Award for their commitment to and support of this important work.
Congratulations to award recipient MathWorks and thank you to the Community Foundation for MetroWest, MathWorks and Literations Boston for partnering with JFS to accelerate academic equity in our community!
Learn More
| |
|
Facing severe financial and housing struggles, 62 year old Samantha found crucial support through JFS' Family Assistance program. With help from JFS, Jewish Vocational Service, and Yad Chessed, Samantha received financial assistance, job coaching, and housing solutions. After overcoming eviction and car repossession, she secured a stable home and improved her financial situation. JFS continues to empower individuals like Samantha, ensuring they never face challenges alone.
Learn More
| |
|
Photos: Axie Breen
JFS, in partnership with Yale Appliance Company, the Yale Appliance Foundation, and Framingham Public Schools, hosted a winter boot distribution event to support families with limited income. Over 250 children received winter footwear, ensuring they stay safe and warm during outdoor activities.
Thanks to the generosity of the Yale Appliance Company and the Yale Appliance Foundation, more than 1,500 pairs of shoes and boots have been provided since 2021. This collaboration helps ensure that every young student in Framingham has what they need to thrive, both in and outside the classroom.
Thank you to our partners for working with JFS to accelerate social, academic and health equity in our community!
Learn More
| |
|
The Rashi Lower School community generously supported JFS during Sukkot to fulfill the mitzvah of helping support families in need. Rashi parent Danielle Darish and alumni parent Helene Gelber dropped off clothes to JFS, including snow pants, hats, gloves, jackets, and umbrellas. The donations will be distributed through the JFS/FPS Resource Room.
Thank you to Danielle, Helene and The Rashi Lower School community for your generous support and for helping ensure that families in need can be safely enjoy the outdoors during the cold winter months!
Learn More
| |
|
JFS is pleased to announce that CEO Lino Covarrubias has been named in the MetroWest Daily News list of 25 Most Interesting People in 2024.
Congratulations to Mr. Covarrubias and to all who made this year’s list!
Learn More
| |
|
The JFS Memory Cafés provide a welcoming, judgement free opportunity for people living with dementia and their caregivers to enjoy some fun and entertainment and socialize with others in the community facing the same challenges. During recent events, participants were soothed by the sounds of singing bowls and were treated to a Celtic Music Concert.
If you are caring for a loved one with memory loss or dementia, sign up to attend a JFS Memory Café. For more information, e-mail MemoryCafe@jfsmw.org or call 508-875-3100 x550.
Learn More
| |
|
JFS proudly participated in the 4th annual Adult Resource Fair, held in the heart of downtown Framingham Common. This remarkable event hosted by the MetroWest Care Connection, brought together 35 dedicated community partners, each eager to make a positive impact.
Thanks to a generous basic needs grant from the City of Framingham, JFS was able to distribute hundreds of warm, essential seasonal clothing items, helping to keep our community members cozy as they weather the colder months of winter.
Thank you to the City of Framingham for their generous support and to our partners for working with JFS to accelerate social equity in our community!
Learn More
| | |
|
|
Name: Halie Goldwire, LCSW
Position: Geriatric Care Manager, JFS Allies in Aging Elder Care Solutions
From: Denver, Colorado
Speaks: English
Navigating healthcare, housing, family dynamics, and personal challenges can be overwhelming. Being there to support and guide people through these tough times would be incredibly rewarding, and I’m excited to make a positive difference with the team I’ve joined.
| | | |
|
|
Name: Paola Matias
Position: Homemaker and Personal Care Homemaker, JFS Homecare
From: Honduras
Speaks: Spanish, Portuguese and English
I have always liked to help people and that is why I really like this job, because I like to see people smile, I also like to feel useful and to be able to make people smile when they feel sad.
| | |
|
JFS of Metrowest, in collaboration with the City of Framingham Office of Community Development and with the Framingham Council on Aging - Callahan Center has launched the Framingham Senior Home-Share pilot program. This innovative program connects older adults with extra space in their homes with others looking for affordable housing to rent.
If you are interested in participating in this program, please click here to complete the form and a representative will contact you shortly. If you have questions or would like to learn more about this program, please contact Diana O'Brien via email dobrien@jfsmw.org or by phone at 508-875-3100 x 700.
| |
|
Need help caring for an aging loved one?
JFS Geriatric Care Managers can help.
| |
|
JFS in partnership with Jewish Vocational Service (JVS) provides support to eligible clients who are unemployed or underemployed.
Learn More
| |
|
Are you in need of mental health services?
Click Here
| |
JFS Supports Our Veterans | |
WANT TO MAKE A MEANINGFUL DIFFERENCE? VOLUNTEER! | |
|
Since 1979, newly arrived refugees, asylees, and their families have received assistance from JFS. For many of these families, low wages, language barriers and limited experience with American systems are some of the challenges they face. As they work to rebuild their lives, they have the best chance for success when they have support from a caring and involved community.
While our case managers work hard to connect families with essential resources and ensure their basic needs are met, there is much more that we can offer with the assistance of dedicated volunteers.
We are currently building teams of volunteers to provide hands-on support and guidance for these families as they adjust to their new lives in the U.S. and work towards self-sufficiency. Whether you have a few hours a week or a few hours a month, we have a role for you.
How You Can Help
JFS seeks volunteers to serve as:
-
Team Leaders – Organize and coordinate volunteer efforts with case managers, identifying client needs and mobilizing the team to provide support.
-
Team Mentors – Work one-on-one with clients on specific goals, such as improving English language skills, securing employment, navigating public transportation, or managing healthcare needs.
-
Team Helpers – Lend a hand with one-time or occasional tasks, such as accompanying clients to doctor’s appointments, helping with grocery shopping, or providing transportation.
In particular, we are in need of volunteers to work with families who are living in the areas of Needham and Brookline.
Regardless of your experience or availability, if you are new to JFS or a long time volunteer, there’s a place for you to make a meaningful impact. You’ll receive all the training and ongoing support necessary to be successful and make a lasting difference in these families’ lives.
Now is the time to act. Your support can truly help these families take the crucial first steps toward self-sufficiency and a brighter future.
Don't wait to get involved - Click here and complete the form today!
| |
Second Chance Cars is a Massachusetts nonprofit with a mission to connect low income working adults with affordable vehicles so they can maintain living wage jobs and support their families.
SCC solicits “gently used” car donations from the public and offers in return:
- The highest tax deduction – the car’s retail value
- The most rewarding donor experience – meeting who got your car
- The most impact – getting someone to work
| |
|
Make a Legacy Gift to JFS of Metrowest and
Join the JFS Generation to Generation Legacy Circle
Your concerns and priorities have helped shape JFS today. Your legacy gift will help shape tomorrow.
To ensure that the values and concerns that have inspired your involvement in JFS will endure for generations to come, consider:
- Including JFS in your estate planning -
- Making a gift to JFS as a bequest in a will or trust -
- Designating a gift to the JFS Endowment Fund -
Together, we can maintain the agency’s promise to the community to stand up for those left behind.
Contact Jayne Lampert, Senior Director of Philanthropy today
to learn how you can become a member of the Legacy Circle
Email: jlampert@jfsmw.org - Call: 508-875-3100 x 430
| |
JFS COMMITTEE ON ANTI-RACISM & FIGHTING ANTISEMITISM | |
To learn about upcoming news and events as they occur, like/follow the JFS Committee on Anti-Racism and Fighting Antisemitism social media channels, and CLICK HERE for a list of resources specific to this work.
| |
|
DID YOU KNOW THAT...
-
JFS is a multi-year recipient of the 4-star Charity Navigator rating with a 100% PERFECT SCORE! Less than one-tenth of one percent of charities rated earn a perfect score.
- JFS serves over 7,800 individuals yearly, 40% of whom are not Jewish
- JFS engages over 300 volunteers across 17 programs
- JFS distributed over 7,000 clothing items for children of low income families in the past six months
- JFS serves 3,500 older adults by increasing access to healthcare and safe aging solutions
- JFS, in partnership with CJP, distributed 6,000 holiday meals for Passover and Rosh Hashanah
- JFS resettled almost 300 displaced refugees from Syria, Afghanistan, Ukraine, and Venezuela in partnership with local faith organizations
- JFS works hand in hand with immigrants and families from 60+ countries
- JFS is a community convener in the areas of bigotry and antisemitism
- JFS works with over 100 collaborative community partners throughout Massachusetts
- 80% of JFS' total annual revenue is philanthropic dollars, supported by donors like you!
Partner with JFS and make a meaningful impact in our community.
Make a donation now!
| |
Thank you to all who partner with JFS to
Accelerate Social, Academic and Health Equity in our community.
Your help is needed - get involved today!
| | | | |
