As we enter the Hebrew month of Tevet, we find ourselves in winter’s quieter days – a season that invites us to reflect inward and reach outward with compassion. The very root of Tevet is tov, meaning “goodness,” reminding us that even in darker times, goodness can be discovered and expanded through our actions.
Jewish tradition connects Tevet with the Hebrew letter ayin, which means “eye” – calling us to truly see one another, to recognize needs, and to envision the possibilities that lie ahead when we work together.
This message feels especially meaningful as we reflect on this past season. Each of you – our community partners, clergy, staff, volunteers, donors, and supporters – has served as a kind of shammash, the helper candle on the menorah that brings light to all the others. You’ve ignited hope for families facing food insecurity, older adults seeking companionship, Holocaust Survivors preserving dignity, and neighbors working to rebuild their lives.
Your light has illuminated our community in remarkable ways this Chanukah season.
Through Share the Joy, you provided over $43,000 in holiday gift cards to clients in need – including Holocaust Survivors, veterans, older adults, and individuals with disabilities. We’re especially grateful to sponsors Ann & Bernie Miller, Scrub Daddy, Holman Automotive, and Wolf Commercial Real Estate for inspiring this community-wide generosity.
When we launched our Chanukah Hunger Challenge, you responded with extraordinary heart – providing pantry staples and household essentials to local families struggling to meet basic needs.
At our Love Café Europa Chanukah celebration, Holocaust Survivors gathered to share a traditional meal, songs, and treasured memories – a beautiful reminder that connection and joy matter at every stage of life.
Nine local children had the opportunity to Shop With a Cop this month, and it was deeply moving to watch them choose essentials like soap, shampoo, and socks alongside their gifts. Thank you to the Cherry Hill Police and Mayor Dave Fleisher for making this day so special.
Our SAIL and SAIL Junior members came together for a festive gathering at Songbird Karaoke in Collingswood, bridging generations with music and laughter.
And through our Empty Chair program, we offered comfort to community members grieving the loss of loved ones during the holidays, ensuring that no one faces their sorrow alone.
As we prepare to light the final candles on the menorah and step into the secular New Year, we reflect on the light that JFCS has carried for more than 81 years – a light made possible only through your partnership.
This Tevet, we invite you to consider: How will you continue to be a shammash in the year ahead? How will you bring light and goodness into the lives of others?
With heartfelt gratitude and wishes for a joyous conclusion to Chanukah, a Shabbat Shalom, and a happy, healthy, peaceful New Year…
