Jewish Family Services (JFS) is beginning its 2024 Hanukkah Project to provide wrapped Hanukkah gifts and gift cards for more than 300 individuals and families (including children and older adults) in the community who are facing challenges.
Though Hanukkah is weeks away (starting on Wednesday evening, Dec. 24), JFS plans for this project early to make sure those in need are taken care of. Currently, JFS invites community members to participate by adopting recipients.
“Last year we had an incredible community response with 75 individuals and groups signing up to support JFS clients for Hanukkah,” said Rachel Ohlhausen, JFS director of program operations. “Our supporters make the holidays brighter. One client last year received a microwave for cooking, along with his gift card. The surprise in his face and laughter of joy and disbelief receiving that box has been a special memory and reminder of why we do this important work.”
Those interested in adopting a JFS client for Hanukkah (family or individual) should complete an “Adopt a Recipient” interest form at bit.ly/hanukkahadoption. The deadline to adopt is Oct. 28.
Once adopters are matched to recipients, JFS will send the recipient’s wish list by Nov. 1, and the adopters can shop for them. Gift drop-off will take place between Nov. 18 and 27 at the JFS office at The J (5801 W. 115th St., Overland Park, KS 66211).
JFS is also asking for the donation of gift cards, which allow clients to choose items for themselves, get the correct sizes and styles, shop for groceries or surprise a family member. Gift cards should be from Target, Walmart or Amazon. The gift card drop off deadline is Nov. 27.
Financial donations made to JFS for the Hanukkah project will be used to purchase gift cards on the donor’s behalf. Donations can be made online, mailed or delivered to the JFS offices at the Jewish Community Campus or at JFS’ Brookside office (425 E. 63rd St., Kansas City, MO 64110). Checks should have “Hanukkah Project” indicated in the memo line.
Any questions about the Hanukkah Project should be emailed to .
The JFS Hanukkah Wrap Party will take place on Monday, Dec. 9, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. in the social hall of The J. Volunteers are needed to wrap gifts to clients. Registration for the wrap party and opportunities to sign up to do gift delivery will be posted on JFS’ website in early November.
