These are trying times for our country, not only with regard to the ongoing pandemic and the economic crisis, but also concerning major policies that directly impact individuals and families. Recent debate and decisions on immigration, discrimination, healthcare and gender equity have prompted JFS to become more active in the public policy arena, in so much as is permitted by law.
These issues, and many others, concern Jewish Family Services and the people it serves every day in meeting life’s challenges. JFS’ mission is based on the Jewish values of tzedakah (justice) and tikkun olam (repairing the world).
“It is an important time to bring these values to light by using our voice to advocate for policies and programs that affect the most marginalized individuals and communities we serve,” said Don Goldman, JFS executive director and CEO.
Over the past few months, JFS staff formed an advocacy workgroup to establish a framework to guide decisions around which causes and issues the agency might take a position on and strategically engage with efforts that affect its clients and community.
On issues that are closely tied to JFS’ mission and services, such as those related to food access or aging with dignity, JFS may develop public statements on them and engage in direct advocacy. For issues that may affect clients but don’t closely align with the agency’s mission and scope of services, JFS will closely monitor and endorse efforts under the leadership of partners and other organizations.
According to Hayden Rand, JFS program impact manager, the advocacy workgroup is collaborating across different agency program areas to consider how JFS can speak out on institutional and systemic levels.
“So many policies — whether federal, state or local — dramatically shape the experience of many of our clients, and a commitment to justice requires that we use our position to take action when necessary,” Rand said. “For example, we know access to affordable, quality health care is vital to overall well-being, and that advocating for Medicaid expansion in Missouri is crucial to reducing health disparities we see in our communities.”
Rand was referring to Amendment 2 that will appear on the Aug. 4 Missouri statewide ballot. If approved, this expansion would insure over 200,000 Missourians, including a number of JFS clients, who are trapped in the coverage gap of earning too much to currently qualify for Medicaid, yet not enough to afford private insurance.
“Too often families have to decide between putting food on the table and seeking necessary medical care — a decision no one should have to make,” Goldman said.
Last fall, JFS collected signatures to get Medicaid expansion on the Missouri ballot.
“Now we are joining organizations across the state including the Missouri Chamber of Commerce, the Missouri Nurses Association and the Missouri NAACP in supporting Amendment 2 through the #YesOn2 campaign,” Goldman said.
If the measure passes, Missouri will join the 36 states that have chosen to expand crucial health coverage to vulnerable individuals and families while protecting hospitals and-er community.