As 2022 comes to a close, the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia reflects on how the community’s generosity has created local and global impact for countless lives over the past year. The following stories illustrate how just some of those people have been uplifted and irrevocably changed through the Jewish Federation’s funded services, programs and organizations.
“If not for your help, I don't know how I would make it.”
Meet Yakov, 69, from Kishinev, Moldova. During COVID, he was confined to his house, where his diabetes and hypertension impeded his ability to cook his own meals. Through the support of the local Jewish Federation and the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee, Yakov received hot meals three times a week and was also given funds to cover the cost of his heating bill during Moldova’s bitter winter.
“We are very appreciative that we are able to remain independent and safe in our own home.”
Meet siblings Saul and Nina, 91 and 89, who mutually take care of each other at their home in Northeast Philadelphia. For 30 years, they have been a part of the Naturally Occurring Retirement Community (NORC), which is run by Jewish Family and Children's Service. NORC, a grantee of the Jewish Federation, provides them with home repairs, winterization efforts and COVID protection kits.
“I found a non-judgmental Jewish community outside of a synagogue setting where I can participate in my lost Jewish heritage.”
Meet Rose, 30, from Spring Garden, Philadelphia. Rose lost touch with her Jewish identity at the age of 11 when her mother remarried a Christian man. Now Rose is re-exploring her Judaism through OneTable Philadelphia, supported by the Jewish Federation, where she has already hosted three Shabbat dinners.
Meet Jack, 23, who lives in Philadelphia and is on the autism spectrum and has ADHD. Having trouble finding employment, Jack met with a career counselor through the JEVS Human Services’ Helping Hands program, supported by the Jewish Federation. The counselor helped Jack craft a resume and enroll in an Automotive Inspection class. Jack now works full-time as a Subaru Express Automotive Technician.
“I serve today, full of pride and love for my country and my people.”
Meet Simona. Simona was born in Russia and moved to Israel at three years old to receive treatment for her uterine cancer. She has Jewish roots, but was not halachically Jewish. As an adult, Simona completed the Jewish Agency for Israel’s Nativ program, supported by the Jewish Federation, and learned the meaning of being Jewish, which inspired her to convert to Judaism and become an officer in the IDF.
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Whether in person or through screens, in times of peace or in war, the Jewish community does not waver. Support the Jewish Federation's mission to create a brighter future and an even stronger community by making a gift before December 31 at jewishphilly.org/donate.