By Executive Director Debbie Zoller, MSW, LCSW More than 7 million people nationwide including millions of children, people with disabilities, and older adults are at risk of losing at least some of their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. SNAP reductions, as well as other federal cuts, have resulted in increased demand for food from […]
The Food Insecurity Crisis in our Neighborhood Read More »
The haunting image of the two Israeli diplomats senselessly gunned down outside the Capital Jewish Museum ignites feelings of sadness, grief – for their families, for lives cut short, and for a world where such violence is still possible. How can we bear witness to the tragedies past and present and maintain our spirit? Antisemitism
Addressing Uncertainty in our World Read More »
Congratulations to the 2025 JFS Scholarship Winners Gaines Family Foundation Prize in Engineering – awarded to Max Bub, who will be attending Schreyer Honors College at The Pennsylvania State University, College of Engineering. Martin Philip Memorial Scholarship – awarded to Mikaela Garber, who will be attending Binghamton University. Martin Philip Memorial Scholarship – awarded to
Jewish Family Service 2025 Scholarship Winners Read More »
Jewish Family Service has partnered with Cedar Crest College’s School of Social work for eight years to provide supportive educational experiences to students. Over the past eight months, Kelly Brightbill fulfilled her practicum hours by interning at JFS. As we celebrate Kelly’s graduation, she shares her thoughts about the time she’s spent at JFS. Working
Intern Kelly Brightbill: Building the Social Work Experience at JFS Read More »
President John F. Kennedy designated May as Older Americans Month, an occasion to honor and acknowledge the contributions of older adults. The 2025 theme, Flip the Script on Aging, focuses on challenging stereotypes of aging, as well as exploring opportunities for staying engaged, highlighting opportunities for purpose and connection. JFS strives to address this on
Celebrating Older Americans Read More »
Oscar Wilde said, “The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention.” National Volunteer Recognition Month is observed in April. With a weeklong celebration on April 20-26. Jewish Family Service of the Lehigh Valley is truly grateful for the 80 volunteers who dedicate their time and talents to the meaningful work of
Thank you JFS Volunteers! Read More »
The topic of accessibility and inclusion can be overwhelming as there are many different approaches and meanings. Our goal at JFS is to include and celebrate all abilities in our community. We hope to bring awareness, encouragement, and advocacy for all individuals, regardless of ability. Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance & Inclusion Month (JDAIM) is traditionally
Embracing Inclusion in our Community Read More »
Friday, January 31, 202511:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.Location: JFS office or Zoom JFS will hold a monthly guided healing experience led by Debbie Zoller, MSW, LCSW with music, spirituality, and reflection. Participants can take an hour to connect with others and build resilience as we share stories and creative ways to cope with the world.
Through The Healing Lens Read More »
Jewish Family Service has recently completed a transformation of the waiting room and common areas thanks to a project inspired by the Volunteer Center of the Lehigh Valley’s Volunteer Challenge. The Volunteer Challenge mobilizes local corporations and businesses to partner with nonprofit organizations to complete sustainable projects. In May of 2024, Alvin H. Butz, Inc.
A New Year and a New Look for JFS Read More »
Debbie Zoller MSW, LCSW – JFS Executive Director This year, the first night of Hanukkah begins on December 25 which is also Christmas Day. Since the start of the 20th century, there have only been four previous times when the two holidays coincided, including 1910, 1921, 1959, and 2005. Christmas is a major Christian holiday
Kindling the Holiday Lights Read More »