My name is Iryna, and I’m from Odesa, Ukraine. I came to the United States in 2022 with my 9-year-old daughter, fleeing the war with nothing but hope—hope to find safety and the strength to rebuild our lives from scratch. The first months were frightening and deeply isolating. I didn’t speak E...

JFCS has stood as a sanctuary for those fleeing violence, persecution, and disaster, from the pogroms of the 19th century to the ongoing war in Ukraine. Our commitment to the Jewish value of “welcoming the stranger” runs deep in our history—and continues with unwavering purpose even now. A His...

Laura Filshtein, Volunteer with JFCS’ Friendly Visitors Program: When I first learned about JFCS’ Friendly Visitors program, I knew it was the perfect opportunity to give back in a meaningful way. I was matched with Lydia, a resident of the assisted living community at Rhoda Goldman Plaza, and i...

Simon Miller, volunteer with JFCS’ Nutrition Program: When I moved to San Francisco from Boston just two years ago—by way of my hometown, London—I knew I wanted to build meaningful connections in my new home. I didn’t expect that delivering groceries through JFCS would become one of the ...

This recognition reflects Dr. Friedman’s decades of visionary leadership, her unwavering commitment to human dignity, and her lifelong dedication to strengthening Jewish peoplehood and community around the world. Under her guidance, JFCS has become an internationally respected leader in delivering...

JFCS changes lives every day—and we couldn’t do it without the help of our volunteers. From providing companionship to isolated seniors to ensuring people in need have access to nutritious meals, volunteers are essential to every aspect of our work.  During Volunteer Appreciation Month, we’re...

Dear Friends, Where does a troubled Jewish teen who is being raised in a single-parent family on welfare and food stamps turn to find help and support in the Bay Area? What beyond spiritual support can a Rabbi who very much wants to help offer a family in crisis? More than 50 years ago our […...

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 c...

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 tradit...

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 th...

For decades, Alice took pride in preparing gourmet meals for her husband, Joe. When Alice’s memory declined and she forgot most evenings to cook, Joe didn’t have the heart to raise the issue. Their weight and health began to suffer. Worried, Alice and Joe’s daughters looked for he...