Build a More Just and Compassionate World
With your gift, we can create solutions that repair the community, one person at a time.
This year, our neighbors have faced unprecedented threats to their rights, wellbeing, and ability to meet even their most basic needs.
Sergio, a JFCS legal client, turned 18 last month. Alone in a new country, he was ready to leave the shelter and start building a life. But in the early morning hours of his birthday, he was taken in shackles into ICE custody—a violation of his rights. Thanks to our legal team and partners, he was released. That night, he celebrated with burgers and fries—breaking bread with the strangers who had advocated for his rights.
Alice, a mother facing eviction, walked into the JFCS Squirrel Hill Food Pantry for the first time. Her eldest was turning eight, and she couldn’t afford a celebration. As she waited to speak with a caseworker, our pantry director sat with her, listened, and helped her pick cake mix, candles, and books. She left with food, rent assistance—and the means to create a joyful birthday for her child.
Sarah, an older adult, was feeling down as her birthday approached. The JFCS volunteer who visited with her weekly noticed her sadness. He knew Sarah loved baseball but hadn’t been to a game in years. So, our volunteer bought tickets to the Pirates-Marlins game and took Sarah out for pizza afterward. A simple act of kindness reminded her that she was seen, heard, and valued.
Guided by enduring values—justice, compassion, dignity—Jewish Family and Community Services has shown up and made real change:
- Expanded the Squirrel Hill Food Pantry’s space and hours to meet rising food insecurity
- Delivered award-winning mental health counseling to teens and adults
- United 18 entities as the Collaborative for Immigrant Impact to protect immigrants
- Guided job seekers toward economic stability
- Supported older adults with companionship and care
- Protected vulnerable individuals through legal advocacy and guardianship
Now, let’s talk about the future.
Community needs are evolving rapidly. We can’t predict every challenge—but we can commit to meeting each one with bold, creative, and strategic solutions. Together, we can turn fear into hope, isolation into connection, and hardship into moments of joy.
Please make a gift so that together we can respond to urgent needs, uplift those who are struggling, and build a more just and compassionate world—one rooted in the dignity of every human being.
With your gift, we can create solutions that repair the world, one person at a time.