News & Impact

At their best modern devices are helpful tools and can make our lives easier. At their worst they are remarkably addictive, and research now clearly shows that their use can lead to a host of behavioral, interpersonal, and mood issues for people of all ages. If you are reading this you likely have a young child or adolescent in your life. I have some bad news for you—for young children in particular screen-time has been shown to have negative effects on sleep (which can also negatively impact mood and lead to behavioral issues), social interaction and learning, executive functioning… Read More

Healthy older adults are living longer in their own homes, but a sudden fall in the shower or an unforeseen diagnosis can thwart a senior’s best-laid plans to age independently. LGBTQ+ seniors, who often don’t have children or who may be single and living alone, are among those taking advantage of JFCS’ popular Futures Program, which helps seniors plan for their future care needs while they are healthy. Alan and Peter were thrilled to sign up for the Futures Program. As self-described “planners” in all aspects of their lives, the couple approached their care at home no differently. Partners… Read More

Once survivors of domestic violence take the courageous step to leave their abuser, they face an uphill climb to self-sufficiency. Homelessness, trauma, debt, and few job skills can create unsurmountable hurdles to creating a new life—oftentimes leading them back to their abuser. That’s why JFCS’ Dream Program helps women and their children with not only finding stable long-term housing, but with a multitude of other wrap-around services and support necessary to get them back on their feet. JFCS recently expanded its Dream Program to offer more housing and services to an increased number of families who have survived domestic violence.… Read More

Depression, cognitive decline, and long-term illness are just some of the dangers associated with loneliness and social isolation for adults 65 and over. JFCS’ Senior Services Program, Seniors At Home, has collaborated with two innovative technology companies, Intuition Robotics and Lyft, to harness the benefits of technology and make sure that seniors can enhance their quality of life, as well as their independence at home. Digital Companion Offers Connection and Reduces Social Isolation Imagine waking up and being greeted by a friendly digital companion that tells you the weather, sends you photos from your grandkid’s Instagram account, and reminds you… Read More

Many of us get to know Jewish Family and Children’s Services when a crisis strikes. Whether it’s a child struggling with a disability, job loss, divorce, or a sick parent, one bad thing can really knock you down. JFCS gets us back up. It happened to me when my sister’s dementia rapidly progressed. JFCS brought in trained professionals who knew how to manage her condition; her situation improved, and I was beyond relieved. When I heard about another JFCS client who is suffering from dementia and is all on her own, I was moved to share her story with you:… Read More

J Weekly By Rob Gloster As a child, Iris Bendahan was confused when her grandmother would speak of relatives who were “not here because of Hitler.” It wasn’t until her sixth-grade class in Israel saw an exhibition on the Holocaust that she finally understood. As an adult, the former religious school principal at Congregation Beth David in Saratoga has made it her mission to ensure Bay Area kids have no such confusion. Bendahan, 57, personally created a Holocaust museum that has been on display each spring at Beth David since 2009. This year, it will be available for viewing until… Read More