Jewish Family & Children's Service of Greater Boston

08/24/2026

At JF&CS we hear every day from parents who are feeling anxious or overwhelmed, but who may not think of their concerns as related to “mental health.” They may simply know that something feels difficult, and that they need guidance.

Parent Connect, JF&CS's newest helpline, offers support through a wide range of parenting complexities, for kids of all ages. Parents are connected with a trained professional who listens with compassion, helps identify underlying needs, and connects callers with resources and next steps. Recent callers have included:

- A newly widowed father, seeking mental health and Jewish life supports for his pr***en son following the death of his mother

- A mother of a teen with extreme anxiety, looking for support for both her daughter and herself

Parents and caregivers can call us at 781-693-1378, email [email protected], or submit an online inquiry to speak with a caring JF&CS professional during business hours.

Learn more about Parent Connect at the link below.

A free, confidential helpline connecting families to expert guidance, emotional support, and trusted resources in Greater Boston.

08/19/2026

The Friendly Visitor Program brings together volunteers and older adults for one-on-one visits that offer warmth, conversation, and companionship. These weekly visits help reduce loneliness, promote dignity in aging, and for many, offer a cherished link to Jewish community and tradition.

We are currently recruiting volunteers, especially those who speak both Russian and English, for the Friendly Visitor Program.

If you are interested, or know someone who might be interested in volunteering with Friendly Visitors, please check out https://www.jfcsboston.org/friendlyvisitor or contact Valerie Maio at [email protected]

08/17/2026

Thank you to Citizens for kicking off our Rosh Hashanah prep at Family Table! These volunteers packed bags with matzah ball mix, oil, and honey, which will be distributed to clients experiencing food insecurity in advance of the Jewish New Year.

08/14/2026

Join JF&CS and Yachad New England for a joyful Rosh Hashanah celebration for adults with diverse needs and abilities on August 30. A kosher dairy lunch will be served as we learn about and celebrate the Jewish New Year.

Rosh Hashanah Celebration for Adults with Diverse Abilities and Needs

08/07/2026

As our population ages, more people than ever are living with dementia. Even so, the stigma around cognitive disorders continues to make asking for support hard for those who are diagnosed.

Through JF&CS' program Dementia Friends Massachusetts, close to 21,000 Dementia Friends are participating in information sessions, learning about dementia, gaining practical tools for supporting individuals living with the condition, and committing to taking action in their own communities. With materials available in over 8 languages, trainings are more accessible than ever.

Interested in becoming a Dementia Friend or leading an information session in your community? Check out https://dementiafriendsma.org for more information.

08/03/2026

As the High Holy Day season approaches, we are reminded that remembrance is integral to the Jewish experience. JF&CS is dedicated to offering a Jewish response to su***de loss. On September 16, 2026, we will gather virtually for a special Yizkor moment, a gentle remembrance of those who have died by su***de.

Yizkor: Remembering Loved Ones Who Died By Su***de

07/30/2026

Feeling overwhelmed by the special education process? You're not alone. Our Virtual IEP Clinic offers families the opportunity to connect with experienced advocates and get guidance on Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) in a supportive, confidential setting.

- Understand your child's educational rights
- Get answers to your IEP questions
- Learn strategies for effective school collaboration
- Receive individualized guidance and support

Whether you're new to the IEP process or preparing for an upcoming meeting, our advocates can help answer questions and explain your options.

Do you have questions about your child's IEP, evaluation results, school services, accommodations, or next steps?

07/22/2026

Join us for a morning of Dance and Movement at JF&CS's Memory Cafe—a welcoming gathering for people living with changes in their memory or thinking, and those who care about them.

This in‑person Memory Cafe will take place on Friday, August 7, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at our Waltham headquarters. Donna Newman-Bluestein will guide us in moving expressively to irresistible music, in our seats or on our feet!

Memory Cafe: Dance and Movement with Donna Newman-Bluestein

07/17/2026

Congratulations to Zachary Albert, recipient of the 2026 Simone Lottor Exceptional Service Award. For nearly a decade, Zach has volunteered his expertise as a financial advisor with JF&CS Journey to Safety, helping survivors of domestic abuse navigate complex financial challenges and build a path to long-term economic security.

Through his work with JF&CS Journey to Safety, Zachary Albert has helped survivors of domestic abuse regain financial stability, confidence, and a path…

07/10/2026

Mark your calendars: This year's Ride and Stride for Food will take place Sunday, September 27. Join Team JF&CS Family Table for this festive event and show your commitment to fighting hunger!

Ride and Stride for Food