Jewish Family Services of Western New York

06/19/2026

06/16/2026

Connection makes our community stronger. Hillel of Buffalo, JCC Buffalo, Jewish Family Services of Western New York, and Buffalo Jewish Federation are excited to announce that we’re teaming up on Give 716 Day!♥️💛💙 Even better, the Foundation for Jewish Philanthropies is stepping up with matching funds, multiplying the power of donations.

Affectionately known as "716 Day" in Western New York, July 16 has taken on a charitable component called Give 716. Together, we amplify our ability to support and strengthen Jewish life in Western New York.🤝 To learn more about each organization, visit the link below. Save the Date: 7/16. Together, every gift can go further.

https://give716.org/give/give716/give716/2026-give-716/charities/jewish-federation-of-greater-buffalo-inc

06/16/2026

We love spending time getting to know community members outside of the office! Ukrainian Embroidery Day (Vyshyvanka Day) is celebrated by Ukrainians worldwide and honors traditional heritage embroidery practices. Some of JFS’ Case Management staff had the opportunity to connect with Ukrainian community members at the festival and share more about the services we offer.

06/15/2026

Did you know JFS’ very own Rabbi Yonina offers both individual pastoral care and guided group options? Her groups range in theme from the Blessing Circle, a support group for those whose loved ones struggle with substance abuse or their mental health, to a regular walking group for seniors. If you’re interested in learning more, you can reach out to her at [email protected].

06/12/2026

The second LGBTQ+ Jewish icon we’re highlighting is Claude Cahoun, an early 20th century artist who pioneered surrealist photography techniques. Lucy Renee Mathilde Schwob was born in France in 1894, and quickly developed an interest in photography at university, and began going by the name Claude Cahun shortly after. Claude’s androgynous appearance was one of the most important components of hre identity, and she sometimes referred to herself with both masculine and feminine language. Claude fought both anti-semitism and general injustice via the arts throughout her career, and resisted N**i occupation during World War 2.

06/11/2026

Congratulations to Molly Carr, our Chief Executive Officer, for being honored on Buffalo Business First's 2026 Power 200 Women list!

Check out the full list at https://www.bizjournals.com/buffalo/news/2026/06/11/buffalo-power-200-women-2026-business.html

06/08/2026

Recently, JFS CEO Molly Carr, Ph.D. and VP of Behavioral Health & Wellness Programs Dr. Kathryn L. Diebold, DSW, LMSW joined reporter I'Jaz Ja'ciel for an episode of 's What's Next Podcast. They discussed existing gaps in Western New York's mental health care and how JFS' programs (specifically our new Critical Time Intervention program) are seeking to fill them. Click the link below to listen. ⬇️

https://www.btpm.org/2026-06-08/how-is-western-new-york-addressing-gaps-in-mental-health-care

06/05/2026

This Pride month, we’re excited to highlight series of LGBTQ+ Jews who have made breakthroughs for the gay community. We’re kicking things off with Rabbi Allen Bennett. He was the first openly gay rabbi in the United States, beginning his pastoral career as a hospital chaplain with the Mayo Clinic. Later, he became rabbi at Congregation Shar Zahav, a gay congregation in San Francisco. During his time there, he officiated the funeral of prominent activist Harvey Milk. He retired from rabbinical service in 2012, and has continued to live and participate in community life in San Francisco.

06/04/2026

Today, June 4th, is Holocaust Survivor Day. The survivors in our kehilla, our community, make our lives richer and brighter, and we're lucky to know them. If you have a survivor in your life, take some time today to reach out to them and celebrate their light.

06/02/2026

Something as simple as a pair of black pants can make the difference for a client starting a new job. Job Developer Asiah Abdullah recently had a client who had a start date for a new role, but did not have the black pants required for the position or the funds available to purchase them on short notice. Asiah collaborated with the client’s caseworker, and together they connected with a woman who donated four pairs of black pants on the same day. Resolute collaboration between JFS’ departments and the community consistently creates new supports for clients and their families, leading to successful outcomes.