JFCS is dedicated to ensuring the well-being and safety of our homebound seniors and individuals with disabilities. We maintain and adhere to the highest standards for Kosher meal preparation with the understanding that for many members of the community, these meals represent a crucial link to tradition and reverence for Jewish law. That’s why we have developed our Kosher Meals on Wheels program, a service that goes far beyond the delivery of meals, providing nourishment to foster a sense of connection and community for our clients.

Our Friendly Visitor Program is a transformative service that brings togetherness, joy, and vital human connection into the lives of our seniors. With the Friendly Visitor Program, we match dedicated volunteers with seniors who are looking for meaningful relationships and the comfort of one-on-one interaction.

Our Friendly Visitor program is designed to provide a sense of belonging and purpose to both our volunteers and the seniors they visit. Volunteers gain a unique insight into the lives and experiences of older adults, forging meaningful relationships built on mutual respect and understanding. They become an essential lifeline, helping seniors feel valued, heard, and engaged with the world around them.

For seniors who may be homebound or have limited social interactions, these visits offer a lifeline to the outside world. Volunteers engage in conversations, play games, share stories, or simply spend quality time together, creating a sense of connection that can brighten even the most challenging days.

JFCS is committed to ensuring the well-being and engagement of our homebound seniors. We understand that loneliness and isolation can have a profound impact on the lives of older adults, especially those who live alone. That’s why we have developed our Telephone Reassurance Program, a lifeline that brings comfort, connection, and peace of mind to our homebound community members.

Through Telephone Reassurance, our dedicated volunteers connect on a weekly basis to engage in meaningful conversations with homebound seniors. These calls are not merely about checking in; relationships are built, a sense of belonging is fostered, and vital connections are maintained.

Through the power of conversation, we aim to alleviate the concerns and anxieties that often accompany living alone. Our volunteers provide reassurance, offering a compassionate ear and a supportive presence to lean on. Whether discussing recent events, sharing stories, or simply exchanging pleasantries, these calls create a lifeline that extends beyond the confines of four walls, reminding our seniors that they are an integral part of our community and never alone.

Our expanded services for Holocaust Survivors are designed to meet the unique and evolving needs of Survivors, acknowledging the immense challenges they have faced and the impact trauma has had on their lives. By offering direct assistance in the form of meals, emergency financial aid, and home care services, the program aims to provide survivors with the necessary support to enhance their quality of life and ensure their well-being. This program is funded by the Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany (Claims Conference), the Jewish Federation of Northern NJ, as well as state and county grants.

Eligible programs for Holocaust Survivors include the following:

Nutritious Meals:

The service ensures that Holocaust Survivors have access to nutritious meals on a regular basis that are crucial for their overall health and well-being. Our resources include providing meal delivery services, such as Kosher Meals on Wheels, and partnering with local organizations to offer food assistance with our dedicated food pantry.

Emergency Financial Assistance:

Many Holocaust Survivors face financial challenges due to various factors, such as limited access to necessary resources, medical expenses, or the need to address immediate financial hardships. The program aims to alleviate stress and ensure that Survivors can live in dignity and security.

Home Care Assistance:

Holocaust survivors often require specialized care and support to maintain their independence and live comfortably in their own homes. The service provides home care assistance to Survivors who may have physical limitations or health challenges. Services include arranging for home health aides or caregivers who can help with daily activities, personal care, medication management, and companionship. The goal is to enable Survivors to age in place and receive the necessary support to lead a fulfilling life.

Shabbat Meals:

At JFCS, we prioritize preserving traditions and ensuring the well-being of our most vulnerable homebound elderly Holocaust Survivors. Thanks to an anonymous donation, we proudly offer a weekly Shabbat meal program that delivers comfort and nutritious food right to their doorstep.

Our Shabbat Meals service extends beyond sustenance. Each week, a dedicated Friendly Visitor is assigned to personally deliver traditional Kosher meals to our community members. These visitors not only provide nourishment but also offer vital support and companionship, enhancing the overall experience.

We encourage individuals who are interested in learning more about this service to contact us as availability is limited.

DASH – Dental Assistance for Survivors of the Holocaust:

At JFCS, we firmly believe that everyone deserves access to quality oral healthcare, and we are determined to bridge this gap for Survivors in need. We understand that oral health is not only essential for physical well-being but also crucial for restoring dignity, self-confidence, and a sense of normalcy. We are deeply grateful to the team of pro-bono dental professionals who provide this critical care to survivors who cannot afford it.

Café Europa:

We understand the profound importance of building a sense of community and support for Holocaust Survivors. Café Europa is a special monthly luncheon where Survivors come together to develop warm, supportive friendships in a nurturing environment.

Café Europa serves as a beacon of light, bringing Survivors together to share experiences, memories, and laughter. We believe that these connections are vital for healing, resilience, and the preservation of a legacy that must never be forgotten.

During each luncheon, our dedicated team ensures that every detail is attended to with care. A Kosher lunch is provided, allowing Survivors to enjoy a delicious meal while observing their dietary needs.

In addition to the nourishment provided by the meal, Café Europa offers an enriching program of entertainment. We invite guest speakers who provide valuable insights, share personal stories, or offer educational presentations related to the Survivors’ experiences. These speakers help foster understanding and promote healing within the Survivor community.