News & Impact

The wildfires that swept through the North Bay last October are out, but the scar on the community is one that will last a generation. Since Day One JFCS has collaborated with many integral organizations in the North Bay to make sure disaster victims are able to access all the help available to them. Last month JFCS honored first responders and survivors at the JFCS Fammy Gala after the deadliest wildfire disaster in California history. First Responders and Victims of the North Bay Wildfires JFCS Fammy Video During the initial days and weeks after the fires JFCS helped people with… Read More

Artisanal food products—everything from the tastiest mandelbrot cookie imaginable to the most delicious small-batch jams—are more popular than ever in the Bay Area, but did you know that since day one—that’s almost 170 years ago—JFCS has been supporting just these types of small businesses? It started with revolving loans funds. After the Gold Rush generous donors wanted to help entrepreneurial Jewish individuals specifically for one purpose: to make it possible to grow a small business, especially for those who typically would not otherwise qualify for bank loans. Barriers for Women in Business We’ve come a long way since the early… Read More

Feeling down every so often is a normal part of life. Day-to-day worries are common and can be perfectly normal—who among us hasn’t struggled with bumps in the road? But for anyone experiencing unrelenting sadness or anxiety, it might be time to think about getting help, and JFCS has exceptional mental health professionals who support people of all ages. Whether it is a major life event like a divorce or loss of a loved one, or another underlying stressor, both depression and anxiety can be devastating and may get worse if untreated. The good news is that, with proper care,… Read More

John Levin is a long-time JFCS partner and supporter. His mother, a polio survivor, showed him firsthand how persons with disabilities can overcome obstacles to reach their highest potential. John’s instrumental and inspiring leadership paved the way for the creation and growth of JFCS’ highly regarded Disabilities Services Program, which has served thousands of children and adults with disabilities and their families. John is the Chairman and Co-Founder of the law firm Folger Levin LLP. His incredible vision has created a lasting national impact. His far-reaching honors in public service include the National Public Service Award from Stanford Law… Read More

For many older adults decreased mobility, pain, and the risk of falling make daily tasks difficult or even impossible. JFCS has launched Physical Therapy and Rehab to help them remain active and independent. The new service is also available to individuals of all ages who are recuperating from an injury or surgery. Regular sessions with a licensed physical therapist take place at the client’s home or location of choice, and physical therapy is often covered by Medicare. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an injury from a fall is the leading cause of injury and death… Read More

While the road to equality for those who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer (LGBTQ+) has been a long one, for over 30 years JFCS has been breaking ground by supporting families of all kinds to grow their families by adoption. JFCS continues to work and advocate for LGBTQ+ adoptive families’ legal rights—both in the United States and in Israel. JFCS’ Adoption Connection Receives Prestigious Award from Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Back in the 80s, while the public and elected officials were busy debating the merits of adoptions by queer families, JFCS’ Executive Director Dr. Anita Friedman began… Read More