Nearly one in five adults in the United States live with a mental illness, according to a 2021 study conducted by the National Institute of Mental Health. The Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia remains committed to developing and improving social services to create a more accepting, diverse and inclusive future. Mental health care and wellness programs are a part of $2.6 million that the Jewish Federation allocated to caring for those in need through the Jewish Community Fund in Fiscal Year 2022.

These partnerships, such as the following programs, help ensure that anyone affected by mental illness has access to the appropriate resources and support they need to live healthy and fulfilling lives.

Atidim

In addition to training high school students from vulnerable populations in the periphery area of Israel to become drone operators, the Lehavim Drone Program combines technical and critical thinking skills. Students also meet with counselors to deal with emotional, social and family-related issues which can undermine motivation and affect their ability to achieve.

Israel Trauma Coalition for Response and Preparedness (ITC)

ITC provides direct trauma care and counseling to help community members cope with crises, including the residual effects in the aftermath of attacks in Israel. The organization also offers psychosocial services to individuals, families and communities to develop resilience to economic insecurity and potential homelessness.

Jewish Family and Children’s Services of Greater Philadelphia (JFCS) - Older Adult Care Management
JFCS provides customized in-home services and home care subsidies related to legal concerns, cognitive functioning, health and safety, emotional well-being and more. The coordination and support of older adults decreases the likelihood of institutionalization and enables them to remain at home as they age. Individuals are provided connections to resources, education and counseling, opportunities for socializing and other programs or services.

KleinLife - Active Adults Program

The KleinLife Senior Community Centers serve older adults through socialization and wellness programs in Elkins Park and Northeast Philadelphia. These programs support the ability of older adults to maintain their health and wellness through various classes that exercise the mind and body. The programs also help to ensure food security through a free lunch that is often accompanied by entertainment or holiday celebrations.

Tikvah/Advocates for the Jewish Mentally Ill (AJMI) Social Program

Tikvah AJMI is a grassroots organization committed to improving the quality of life for adults living with mental illness. This program provides opportunities for those living with mental illness and their loved ones to participate in education, group therapy and social events to help provide a sense of community.

Tikvah Residence
JEVS Human Services operates the Tikvah Residence program, an apartment building that helps maintain a safety net for individuals living with disabilities related to mental health diagnoses. The program offers opportunities for peer socialization, community and/or work involvement, healthcare oversight and wellness education, self-management skills, improved access to community resources and more. Tikvah Residence also engages local community members impacted by mental illness with programming and engagement.

__________________________________________________________________________

Did you know?

Forty percent of Jewish households in Greater Philadelphia induced someone living with a mental health condition, according to the Jewish Federation’s 2019 population study.

Addressing the needs within our communities, the Jewish Federation has assisted:

• 786 local individuals reported an increase or maintenance in overall well-being/stability. 
• 472 local individuals reported an improvement or maintenance in emotional stability or mental health. 
• 711 local individuals reported feeling less isolated due to Jewish Federation-supported programing. 

***

Help the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia build a more accepting, diverse and inclusive future by making a gift here.