News & Impact

A Q&A with Gloria Moskowitz-Sweet Following October 7, 2023, antisemitic incidents in K – 12 schools surged by 135%, creating unprecedented challenges for Jewish families. Gloria Moskowitz-Sweet, LCSW, Education Specialist at the JFCS Holocaust Center, brings over 40 years of experience as a clinical social worker to help parents navigate these difficult conversations with their teens. Q: What trends and concerns have you observed in your work with parents since  October 7, 2023? A: Since October 7, parents have been reaching out to us as their teens face intensified antisemitism both in school and online. My workshop “Raising Jewish … Read More

We recently welcomed Holocaust survivors from JFCS’ Cafe by the Bay program to an event called “Our Own Shetl,” designed to immerse them in the world of the once-thriving Jewish communities of Eastern Europe known as shtetls. Through lovingly crafted visuals, live music, and traditional food, we recreated the rich cultural atmosphere of these historic villages. The result was an engaging, interactive experience that brought history to life for those who lived it. A team of dedicated volunteers worked tirelessly in a private art studio to construct our very own shtetl. They repurposed large cardboard boxes into building blocks for… Read More

In times of uncertainty, having trusted guidance can make all the difference. With immigration policies shifting and global events creating new challenges, many individuals and families are unsure where to turn for accurate information and reliable support. Below, you’ll find answers to some of the most common immigration questions we hear, along with resources and ways to connect with JFCS for personalized help. When it comes to protecting your rights and your family, taking action early is essential—and you don’t have to do it alone. I’m worried about my or my family member’s visa or green card application. What should… Read More

High school junior Marley Freyman has always been passionate about leadership, an interest she nurtured through her involvement in the many opportunities offered by JFCS’ YouthFirst programming. Her first experience was as a YouthFirst Impact Year Leader. As her service project for that program, she collaborated with JFCS’ Shupin Social Club and the Gary Shupin Independent Living Community for adults with developmental disabilities. She organized the Shupin volunteers in an effort to clean up walking paths in San Francisco’s Presidio district. “We took a lot of time walking in pairs through nature, picking up trash and forming bonds between groups… Read More

When a raging wildfire swept through the Bowyer’s house in Northern California last fall, it destroyed more than just their property—it took their home and years of cherished memories. This devastating loss came at an already overwhelming time, as the family was grappling with serious health challenges and the recent loss of a beloved family member. The holidays loomed ahead, promising none of their usual warmth and joy. “It challenged us to stay strong and lean on each other,” the family said about their feelings of initial hopelessness, “The wildfire was our rock bottom.”  Lost and devastated, the family turned… Read More

For decades, JFCS’ Adoption Connection has been a national leader in domestic open adoption. With the upcoming launch of our new surrogacy program, JFCS will be a unique family building center, providing education, expertise, and compassionate support for two popular paths to parenthood. Below, read the heartwarming first-hand experiences of new families Adoption Connection has helped grow. Mischa and Lillie “We’re so grateful to Adoption Connection for being there for us! Their encouragement to keep showing up led us to life with Felix, which we wouldn’t trade for anything.” We knew we wanted to adopt, and got started in the… Read More