News & Impact

When the invasion of Ukraine began, Andrii Blyzenko immediately thought of his mother and younger brother. Fearing the worst, he contacted JFCS Legal Services for advice on ways to bring his loved ones to safety. JFCS has been resettling Jews from the former Soviet Union for decades and is one of the largest centers for emigre resettlement in the United States. Andrii’s connection to JFCS dates back to when he arrived in San Francisco from Odesa several years ago. His father, also received legal services from JFCS when he came to the US, and then turned to us for help… Read More

Our hearts go out to the Ukrainian people whose lives have been shattered by the invasion. JFCS thanks our community for mobilizing quickly and showing an outpouring of support to help deliver funds that provide food and emergency aid inside Ukraine and refugee assistance in other countries. We are working closely with our colleagues there on the ground. Additionally, JFCS can offer legal assistance if desired, helping to reunite refugees with relatives here in Bay Area, in Israel, or in other countries. As the need for aid continues, there are several ways that you can help. Donate to JFCS Double… Read More

With the eruption of war in Ukraine, Jewish Family and Children’s Services is accepting donations for direct humanitarian aid in cooperation with our colleagues working on the ground there. We are monitoring the situation closely and stand ready to help provide support to those who need it. We are currently coordinating with our partners in the region for possible refugee resettlement in the U.S., Israel, and other countries. 100% of donations go to humanitarian aid for families in Ukraine. We will keep you informed by posting updates on our website as available. Many in our Bay Area community have family… Read More

Building Community through Leadership From a young age, Andrew (Andy) Hess learned the importance of giving back to his community. He had the best teachers: grandparents and parents who embraced the opportunity to be of service. Andy, who was elected to the Board of Directors in July 2021, was introduced to Jewish Family and Children’s Services (JFCS) by Board member David Dossetter, a colleague at Bernstein Global Wealth Management. Andy recalls that David would talk about JFCS in glowing terms. His interest piqued, Andy attended JFCS’ Fammy Gala and was inspired to support JFCS’ humanitarian work. “JFCS helps so many… Read More

When the pandemic hit, Samuel was stuck at home, unable to get out and do anything—no work, no in-person social or recreation activities. The loss of connection left a void in his life. When his mom heard about Shupin Social Club from an online parent group, she immediately knew this was a solution for Samuel. “And the rest is history. I have new friends and good connections,” Samuel says with a giant smile. JFCS ensures that adults with disabilities are served and receive connection, independence, support, and community. Expanded services now include hundreds of virtual activities and Special Connections, a… Read More

“Service is an important part of our family values and our Jewish values,” says Scott Haber, who was elected to the JFCS Board of Directors in July 2021. Growing up near Philadelphia, Scott observed his family’s active engagement in keeping their temple strong and supporting their community. “For my parents, the ethic of service was fundamental,” says Scott. “From childhood, I knew that giving back was part of life.” As a parent and leader, Scott has set his own example of service to the community. A graduate of Cornell Law School, Scott moved to California to join the global law… Read More