Dear Friends, The month of Adar brings with it one of Judaism’s most joyful teachings: “When Adar enters, we increase in joy.” This simple phrase from the Talmud captures the special spirit of the season – one that reaches its peak during Purim. The Purim story reminds us that even in difficult moments, light and hope can emerge [...]
Author Archives: Rachael Ovitz
17
Feb
Feb
Purim is around the corner, and that means costumes, Hamantaschen, and the mitzvah of giving. But Purim isn't just about dressing up and celebrating—it's also about offering support to those in need. This year, JFCS is turning the spirit of Purim into action at our Purim Food Drive on Monday, March 23, at the Betsy [...]
11
Feb
Feb
Life’s challenges and transitions can sometimes feel overwhelming—but sharing your experiences with others who truly understand can make all the difference. Seeing It Through Together is a welcoming educational and support group for individuals living with low vision, including macular degeneration and other eye conditions. This group offers a caring space to connect with others, [...]
04
Feb
Feb
Together We Heal is a free, biweekly support group for family members, friends, and loved ones of individuals in active addiction or recovery. Facilitated by a licensed JFCS clinician, this group offers a safe, compassionate space for participants to share their experiences, build coping skills, learn healthy boundaries, and focus on their own well-being while [...]
28
Jan
Jan
For many of us, transportation is something that hardly merits a second thought. We get in the car, start the ignition, and head out—whether it’s to the grocery store, a doctor’s appointment, or a lunch date with a friend. That simple act of freedom represents independence, connection, and choice. But when driving is no longer [...]
22
Jan
Jan
Emily first connected with JFCS in October 2020 while looking for ways to support the community during the COVID-19 pandemic. She began as a “bite-size” volunteer, delivering kosher meals to homebound seniors. During a Thanksgiving delivery, Emily learned that one recipient was celebrating her birthday alone, unable to be with family due to the pandemic. [...]
21
Jan
Jan
Grieving the loss of a spouse or life partner can feel isolating, especially during the first year. JFCS’s Spousal & Partner Loss Support Group offers a gentle, compassionate space for adults age 60 and over to share their experiences with others who truly understand. Guided by a caring professional, participants will explore the many emotions [...]
21
Jan
Jan
Volunteerism and service are cornerstones of Jewish life and enduring expressions of our deepest values. We are commanded to pursue justice and taught that “the world rests on three pillars: Torah, Avodah (service), and Gemilut Chasadim (acts of loving kindness)” (Pirkei Avot 1:2). These principles have guided Jewish communities for centuries and continue to shape our engagement with the [...]
19
Jan
Jan
As we welcome the month of Shevat, we reflect on the powerful lessons our Jewish tradition offers about growth and legacy. Even as winter lingers here in South Jersey, this month marks a quiet turning point. In Israel, trees are beginning their hidden work – sending roots deeper into the earth while slowly stretching their [...]
12
Jan
Jan
Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a National Day of Service—a time to turn a day off into a “day on” by giving back to our community. In that spirit, JFCS invites you to support our annual MLK Day Food Drive to help stock the Betsy & Peter Fischer Food Pantry during the winter months. [...]