This past Shabbat, we welcomed the month of Av – a time that carries both profound sorrow and unexpected hope. In Hebrew, Av means “father,” and we often add the word Menachem, meaning “comforter,” giving us Menachem Av. This beautiful name reminds us that even in our darkest moments, comfort and consolation are possible.
The month of Av includes some of the most difficult days on the Jewish calendar. On Tisha B’Av, the solemn fast day that falls on the 9th of Av, we mourn the destruction of both Temples in Jerusalem and other tragedies that have marked our history. Many observe the first nine days with customs of mourning – refraining from meat and wine, avoiding celebrations, and turning inward in reflection.
Yet even within this time of grief, light emerges. Just six days after Tisha B’Av comes Tu B’Av, the 15th of Av – a day traditionally associated with love, joy, and new beginnings. It’s a powerful reminder that healing and happiness can follow even the deepest sorrow.
In our world today, when we’re confronted daily with suffering and heartbreak, the wisdom of Av feels especially meaningful. This month calls us to respond not with despair, but with compassion and action. It challenges us to ask: How can I bring comfort and light to those who are struggling?
At JFCS, our staff and volunteers strive to bring comfort and support to our community every day, offering care that uplifts, heals, and restores hope.
Through our Betsy & Peter Fischer Food Pantry, we distribute nutritious kosher food to more than 100 households each week across Camden, Burlington, and Gloucester counties. Thanks to our dedicated volunteers – who sort donations, assemble packages, and make deliveries – clients receive not only nourishment, but dignity and peace of mind.
This commitment to service extends to the next generation. On August 1, Chaverim teen campers from JCC Camps at Medford will join us at the pantry to learn about food insecurity and lend a helping hand, planting seeds for a lifelong commitment to bringing light into their community.
Earlier this month, our Project SARAH (Stop Abusive Relationships At Home) team created something truly special – a Self-Care Social for survivors of domestic violence. The evening was filled with healing and connection, featuring a “Gratitude Jar” activity, self-care stations where clients were pampered with hair, makeup, and nail treatments, and a book giveaway. Most importantly, this evening created a warm, caring space where each person felt seen and valued. The impact was profound, as one participant shared:
“Thank you for the perfect evening on the perfect night. Your giant hearts and hard work are so appreciated. You opened places in my soul that never get touched—and it felt so good. You have saved my life.”
This beautiful gathering was made possible through the generosity of Judy Love, the JFCS Past Presidents’ Impact Fund, the Jewish Women’s Foundation, and Mixellaneous. Their support transforms compassion into action. We also extend a special shout-out to the generous local businesses and individuals who donated goods and services for the event—including Edith James Salon, Massage Envy, Artemis Wax Center, and Ron Nathanson.
As we look ahead, we’re mindful that the High Holy Days can be especially challenging for those who are grieving. While this season invites reflection and connection, it can also intensify feelings of loss. Familiar rituals may stir powerful memories and renewed sorrow. To support bereaved community members, we’re offering a free workshop on Wednesday, September 17: “The Empty Chair at Our Holiday Dinner.” Facilitated by JFCS Geriatric Social Worker Reva Farenback-Brateman and JFCS Board Member Rabbi Richard Address, this gathering will provide an opportunity to honor loved ones while finding meaning and comfort through the themes of the season. We are grateful to the Raymond & Gertrude R. Saltzman Foundation for providing grant funding for this program.
The month of Av teaches us to embrace both mourning and hope, pain and healing. It reminds us that from heartbreak can come renewal, and that we all have a role to play in building a more compassionate world.
As we move through this meaningful time, may we open our hearts, care for one another, and turn our love into action.
