Even though the first Hanukkah candle won’t be lit until Sunday, Dec. 14, the Jewish Family Services (JFS) team is already gearing up for its annual Hanukkah Project — a tradition that brings gifts to hundreds of local individuals and families.
With the community’s help, each year JFS spreads Hanukkah spirit to 300 individuals and families, with ages ranging from young children through older adults, by presenting them with wrapped gifts and gift cards.
JFS invites community members to sign up to "adopt” an individual or family by completing an “Adopt a Recipient” form at form.jotform.com/252644287622158. Once adopters are matched to recipients, JFS will send the recipient’s wish. Adopters can shop at their convenience and then drop off the unwrapped gifts on Nov. 17 at the JFS office at the Jewish Community Campus (5801 W. 115th St., Overland Park, KS 66211).
JFS is also asking for gift cards by Nov. 17. Gift cards allow clients, individuals and families to choose items for themselves, getting the correct sizes and styles, shopping for groceries or surprising a family member. Gift cards or funds can be dropped off at JFS offices, donated online, given through a donor advised fund or as checks mailed or delivered to JFS offices at the Jewish Community Campus or JFS Brookside (425 E. 63rd St., Kansas City, MO 64110) with “Hanukkah Project” on the memo line. JFS asks donors to consider purchasing $25 gift cards from either Target, Walmart or Amazon and drop them off at the JFS offices.
Any questions about the Hanukkah Project should be emailed to .
JFS will host its annual Hanukkah Wrapping Party on Thursday, Dec. 4, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. in the social hall of the Jewish Community Campus. Volunteers of all ages are welcome. Register is available at jfskc.org/jfs-hanukkah-project.
