“I thank you for restoring my faith in humanity. You are helping me cope with the ups and downs of getting old—caring for my physical and emotional needs. I often think, what would I do without you?” — Anna, a 100-year-old Holocaust survivor
Holocaust survivors helped build the community we love in Greater MetroWest NJ. They shaped who we are today, and now, it’s up to us to ensure they are treated with the dignity and care they deserve.
Sadly, many survivors are struggling right now.
As their health declines and their resources run out, they need help more than ever. In Greater MetroWest, more than 370 survivors rely on local services to get the care they need—things like home health care, food, counseling, and help with basic needs. And it’s not just the survivors we’ve known for years; there’s an increasing number of survivors from the Former Soviet Union who have complex, unique needs that require specialized care.
Supporting these survivors is one of the most important things we can do as a community. It’s an act of remembrance and love—and it’s something we can’t put off any longer.
Through the Holocaust Survivor Fund, Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest NJ ensures that survivors live with dignity and security. Since 2015, the Holocaust Survivor Fund has raised more than $5 million to support survivors in our area through Jewish Family Service of MetroWest and Jewish Family Service of Central New JerseyBut those funds have largely been used, and the need is only growing. To keep providing the care these survivors deserve, we need to raise another $5 million in the next five years.
Your generosity helps make it possible for our JFS partners to provide:
- 24/7 home health care
- Emergency financial assistance for food, medical bills, and utilities
- Kosher Meals-On-Wheels
- Mental health counseling and case management
- Transportation and crisis intervention
- Russian-language support services
- Help with reparations and benefits applications
“The help of JFS made such a difference,” Leah, a daughter caring for her mother, shared. “Mom had love and care, and she was able to stay in her home instead of a nursing facility. That meant everything to her. We are forever grateful.”
David, whose mother was hesitant to accept help, added: “The homecare has been life-changing for my mom. Her aide helps her move around, stay clean, get dressed, and even do a little exercise. But most importantly, my mom is happier.”
The truth is time is running out. We can’t wait to help these incredible individuals. Every donated dollar makes a difference in the lives of survivors who’ve given so much to our community.
You can make a direct gift here.
If you have any questions or want to learn more, please reach out to Beth Rosenthal at [email protected] or Sara Chambers at [email protected].