Author Archives: Rachael Ovitz

Supporting Our Community During the SNAP Crisis

The federal government shutdown has created a ripple effect that’s hitting home in South Jersey. With SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits currently on hold, thousands of local families are struggling to put food on the table. For many, these benefits are the difference between security and hunger — and the loss has been immediate [...]

Volunteer Spotlight: Susan Sall

When Susan Sall retired after a 50-year career as an administrative assistant, she wanted to continue giving back — and found the perfect opportunity with JFCS. Since joining our Volunteer Transportation Program in September 2024, Susan has dedicated her time to providing rides for senior clients to their medical appointments. Susan says her favorite part [...]

Changing lives through the transformative power of meaningful work

Jewish tradition teaches that every person has unique gifts to contribute. Yet for individuals with disabilities, the path to meaningful employment is often blocked not by lack of talent or motivation, but by barriers in opportunity, access, and understanding. Supported employment changes this narrative by opening doors that can truly transform lives. Through individualized support, [...]

Join our new Support Group for Families Impacted by Addiction

Addiction doesn’t just affect the individual—it ripples through entire families, leaving loved ones grappling with feelings of isolation, stress, and uncertainty. To address this deep and growing need, JFCS is launching a new support initiative on Wednesday, November 5 at 6pm via Zoom: Together We Heal, a recovery family support group for family members and [...]

Finding Comfort After the Loss of a Parent

Losing a parent at any stage of life can bring deep and lasting grief. At JFCS, we believe no one should have to navigate that journey alone. Our new Loss of a Parent Support Group offers adults 55+ a compassionate space to share experiences, find comfort in community, and begin to heal together. Meeting dates [...]

Celebrating Empowerment and Inclusion at our Dubrow Vocational Celebration Breakfast!

Domestic violence thrives in silence, yet stories of courage and healing remind us that change is possible. This October, JFCS calls upon our community to respond with compassion, justice, and hope. Full Article Text: Jewish Family & Children’s Service is proud to announce its 19th Annual Dubrow Vocational Celebration Breakfast, taking place on Friday, November [...]

Breaking the silence: a community’s call to end domestic violence

Jewish tradition teaches that every person is created b’tzelem Elohim–in the image of God. When abuse shatters that dignity, it is our responsibility as a community to respond with empathy and support. Domestic violence is often hidden, yet it affects families in every community including our own here in South Jersey. This October, during Domestic Violence [...]

Help us fill our pantry shelves this High Holiday season!

As food insecurity continues to rise across Southern New Jersey, the JFCS Betsy & Peter Fischer Food Pantry is working harder than ever to meet the needs of our community. This past year alone, the pantry provided nutritious, kosher food and household essentials to 2,700 individuals—a number that continues to grow. You can make a [...]

Tishrei 5786 / September 2025

As we reflect on our first year as Associate Executive Directors of JFCS, we find ourselves filled with gratitude for your support, encouragement, and the countless moments of connection we’ve shared. Last week’s Annual Celebration, where more than 300 people gathered to honor our agency’s accomplishments, left us smiling and deeply moved. The evening reminded [...]