- Stories & Testimonials
- Financial Assistance
- People with Disabilities
A rising star in the high-tech world, Greg had a dream job that allowed him to provide a comfortable life for his family: Jewish day schools, summer camp, trips to Israel and Europe, and leadership roles in his synagogue. But all of that changed late last year, right around Hanukkah, when he had a cerebral hemorrhage at work. It was the last time he’d see his office … and experience the world as he knew it. “Our world collapsed,” says Leora, Greg’s wife. “I remember thinking, ‘Who will help us now?’ Then I answered my own question: JFCS.”
Leora knew about JFCS because she and Greg had brought their older son, Gabe, to Parents Place a few years back for a social skills group. “Greg had always said to me, ‘In times of need, go to your own community.’ I couldn’t think of a time in our lives when we needed the Jewish community more.”
Because Greg, 47, experienced significant cognitive impairments and could no longer work, a JFCS Disabilities Program social worker has met with him, Leora, and their two children regularly over the last year to lend emotional and practical assistance. Before Leora could go back to work as a pharmaceutical rep, the agency’s Emergency Family Assistance Program provided the family with a loan to cover their mortgage, utilities, and other life necessities. “I don’t know what we would have done without JFCS’ support,” says Leora.
Today, just over a year later, Greg’s progress is slow but steady. While Leora is at work and the kids at school, Greg works with physical and occupational therapists to regain his strength and speech. He also gets help from a Seniors At Home caregiver, who tends to his daily needs.
“This Hanukkah is going to be bittersweet for us,” says Leora. “We are glad that Greg is still with us. He may no longer be the dynamo we’d all loved, but his sweetness and kindness are still there. My sons and I are also grateful to JFCS for all the help it has given—and continues to give—our family. As we light the menorah and think of miracles, we will be thanking JFCS and other friends who have sustained us over this difficult year.”
HELP FAMILIES IN NEED THIS HANUKKAH >