Although the first candle of Hanukkah won’t be lit until December 4th, Jewish Family Services (JFS) is already getting into the holiday spirit and preparing for one of its favorite traditions, the annual Hanukkah Project.
Through the program, JFS helps make Hanukkah brighter for more than 300 individuals and families, from young children to older adults. Through the support of the community, participating clients receive wrapped gifts and gift cards.
JFS invites families, friends, businesses, organizations and groups to adopt a client or family for Hanukkah. To adopt a JFS client for Hanukkah, participants must complete an adopter form. Once adopters and recipients are matched, JFS will send the recipient’s wish list. Adopters can then shop at their convenience and drop off the unwrapped gifts between Nov. 2nd-6th at the JFS Office at the Jewish Community Center, 5801 W. 115th St., Overland Park, Kansas 66211.
Those who prefer to shop online can sign up to purchase items from an online wish list where gifts can be shipped directly to JFS.
For those who would rather not adopt a client, $25 gift cards to Target, Walmart or Amazon are another way to support the project. Gift cards allow recipients to choose their own gifts or purchase special holiday groceries and can be dropped off at either JFS office.
Financial donations also help cover the cost of the Hanukkah Project. Donations can be made online, through a donor-advised fund or by mailing or delivering a check to JFS KC, 5801 W. 115th St., Suite 103, Overland Park, KS 66211. Donors should write “Hanukkah Project” in the memo line.
JFS will host its annual Hanukkah Wrapping Party on Thursday, November 19, from 4:30-6 p.m. at the JCC Social Hall. The gift wrapping party brings the community together, so participating clients can celebrate the holiday with warmth, dignity and a little sparkle. Volunteers of all ages are welcome.
For more information, to adopt a client, shop an online wish list, donate or volunteer, visit jfskc.org/jfs-hanukkah-project/. Questions about the Hanukkah Project can be directed to .
