For 120 years, Jewish Family Services’ mission has been to lend a hand to people facing both life’s daily challenges and helping in times of crisis regardless of faith, age, culture or lifestyle.
JFS is seeking support for its 2022 year-end campaign to fund the continuation of its aid.
Through support from donors, JFS continues its work in face of inflation and COVID-related health and supply chain concerns. Contributions support JFS’ two food pantry locations, older adult programs, counseling and mental health services, emergency assistance programs, chaplaincy program and more.
As one of the largest providers of services for older adults in the Kansas City area, JFS provides vital programs to help clients maintain their independence and stay connected. JFS Care Managers have helped more than 900 older adults. In 2022, JFS has served 3,000 Kansas Citians by providing food, diapers, and personal hygiene items through the Food Pantry and assistance navigating health and housing issues. JFS therapists have provided nearly 2,800 counseling sessions, both online and in-person, to clients ranging from young children to older adults.
JFS shared with The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle the story of one client, Don (a last name was not provided). A Kansas City native and Navy veteran, Don came to JFS through his wife Hannah, a Holocaust survivor. Hannah was already receiving assistance to help cope with the trauma of her early life. Don supported Hannah through difficult years following her trauma from the she suffered as a survivor and later in her declining health. Don credits his resilience to his years serving in the military as well as JFS, who helped with Hannah’s needs.
After Hannah passed away, Don turned to JFS to help him after losing his wife. Don uses a variety of JFS services, including the KesherKC Food Pantry, Calling Connections and many of the agency’s older adult programs. Don is a JET Express rider, which provides him transportation to his medical appointments. As a Help@Home member, a JFS handyman helps Don maintain his long-time home in Kansas City, Missouri.
“I always try to make [the JET Express drivers] laugh before we part,” Don said.
All these efforts have helped Don manage his finances, receive adequate food and household supplies and stay healthy and active.
During the height of the pandemic, JFS Care Manager Jana Fielder, who became an important part of Don’s community since the loss of his wife, continued to stay in touch, ensuring he received services remotely.
“I can say for sure I wouldn’t be here today if JFS hadn’t helped me – and they keep on helping, with whatever I need," Don said.
Those wishing to make a tax-deductible contribution to the 2022 JFS Year-End Campaign can do so online at jfskc.org/DONATE or by sending a check to JFS at 5801 W. 115th St. #103, Overland Park, KS 66211.