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Jewish Family Services
at Work
Although programs have changed
over the past 100 years, the heart of JFS has remained the same
- to be there for any individual or family, when confronted with
a challenge.
Middle-aged eastside residents found themselves
in a financial crisis due to the husband's job loss from
downsizing and the wife's medical problems. Their Social
Security barely covered their mortgage payments. The husband's
current employment was essential to meet all their other needs.
To maintain this employment reliable transportation was
essential. Times were difficult, but the family was getting
by. Unfortunately, the husband's van broke down and required
extensive service. Without the resources to pay for auto
service, the husband could not continue working.
In
desperation, the family decided to go to JFS for help. During
their first visit, the family was given a complete needs
assessment to evaluate their situation. Realizing the
challenges they were facing, the family became a part of the
Bonei Mishpachot program. Lisa Carroll, his outreach worker
guided the family to take hold of their situation and find a
solution. Quickly, the husband received estimates for the auto
repair and JFS supplied funding through the Columbus Jewish
Federation sponsored Emergency Loan Fund.
Once the van was
repaired, the husband was back on the job, but that was not the
end of JFS and the family. When his meager income was not enough
to cover their groceries, he was given Scrip, a Kroger gift
card, sponsored by Columbus Jewish Foundation. When the wife
needed dental work, Lisa turned to Leah's List to find a dentist
to help her pro bono.
The wife continued to stay in touch
with Lisa, always grateful for her guidance and friendship.
Everything was falling in place until her unexpective death.
Once again JFS helped the family with funding for her funeral.
Today, the husband receives career counseling through the JFS
Career and Workforce Development Program. He has an updated
resume and is going to job fairs, some sponsored by JFS. JFS
continues to support and assist the husband and his son as he
seeks better employment and faces the challenges of the time.
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