Jewish Family Services has been described as the heart of the Federation. Due to our stated mission of providing helpful and caring services for our Jewish community, ours is the address people turn to in times of need. Whether through our JFS Virtual Food Pantry, home visits, life coaching, or simply needing someone to talk to, we are here for you.
It is truly a privilege to connect with people and listen to their concerns and successes. It shows people’s trust and willingness to confide in us. Connecting with others is our main reason for being here. We want people to know that they are not alone, and should we be unable to fill their present needs, we will always try to point them in the right direction.
Our most-utilized service is the Virtual Food Pantry. Through the Pantry, we distribute gift cards from various supermarkets in the area, including Midwest Premium Kosher, Martin’s, Meijer, and Walmart. Additionally, to aid our clients, we distribute gas cards from either Speedway or Marathon. This allows them to purchase exactly what they need without any waste. At present, we are distributing approximately $1,700 a month to our clients. (We have a Rosh Hashanah and Passover appeal which enlists our community to help fund this important service.)
Another service we offer is our transportation program. This is geared toward seniors who need rides for shopping, doctor appointments, and other necessary outings. Since September, between our Benton Harbor satellite and here in South Bend, we have given over 150 rides. Lately, due to a lack of drivers, I have had the honor to drive our seniors. It gives me another chance to connect with them on a deeper level as we talk during our travels. (If you would like to volunteer as a driver, please contact me.)
Visiting and speaking with seniors in their homes is an especially meaningful part of JFS. We have the opportunity to spend quality time with our seniors; and thanks to our discussions and updates, they remain part of our extended community. Many enjoy catching up on the local news while reminiscing about how things were when they were more active.
In partnership with the Forever Learning Institute, I offer classes on Jewish History and Thought. Most recently I have completed a course on Jewish figures and events; and next semester I am happy to announce that by request of my students, I will be teaching a class on the Enlightenment and how it has affected Jews throughout history up to this very day. Adult learning classes offer opportunities for social interaction, continued intellectual challenges, and spiritual growth.
Finally, JFS offers a life coaching service. This program is tailored to the client’s needs and helps clients realize their potential. We can help create or tweak a budget, learn how to deal with stress, develop interview skills, and so much more. If you’d like to use this service, just give us a call and we’ll set up a time.
These are just a few highlights of what JFS is doing. Donations are always welcome because clients are never charged a fee for any of the services listed above. Our ability to operate is due to your generous donations to JFS, for which we are grateful.
If you’d like more information or would like to volunteer, please contact us. We look forward to hearing from you.
Rabbi Fred Nebel
Director of Jewish Family Services