Jewish Family Services of Greater Charlotte Receives a Grant for Holocaust Survivor care.

Charlotte, N.C. ( 2/1/18) – Jewish Family Services of Greater Charlotte (JFS) is pleased to announce it has received a $48,545 grant from The Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) through the Center for Advancing Holocaust Survivor Care. When combined with matching funds, this award will allow for $64,726 in new programming for survivors. 

The grant focuses on three areas: socialization and engagement designed to connect survivors to reduce feelings of isolation, documenting and capturing individual survivor histories and providing second generation family members with the opportunity to share the unique and challenging experiences of life with a survivor. The educational, psycho-social and trauma-based support programs and services that are being designed to meet these goals closely parallel JFS’ mission to strengthen and empower families and individuals.

Of the more than 100,000 Holocaust survivors in the United States, nearly one-quarter are aged 85 or older and one in four lives in poverty. Many live alone and are at risk for social isolation, depression and other physical and mental health conditions stemming from periods of starvation, disease and torture.

“Delivering these often life-saving and life-enhancing services to Holocaust survivors is critical to their quality of life”, said Howard S. Olshansky, Executive Director of JFS. 

Following an award from the United States Department of Health and Human Services for $12 million over five years, JFNA launched the Center for Advancing Holocaust Survivor Care to advance innovations in person-centered, trauma-informed (PCTI) services for Holocaust survivors in the United States. PCTI is a holistic approach that promotes dignity, strength and empowerment of trauma victims.

“We are thrilled to see JFNA provide the backing for this kind of program. Their support of our local community and JFS with this sizeable award is impressive, said Sue Worrel, Chief Executive Officer of Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte.  “Many Holocaust survivors’ lives will forever be changed”.

With clarity, care and tools people flourish and thrive in their daily lives. Since 1980 JFS has been the primary resource in the Charlotte Jewish community for coming to the aid of those in need. JFS strives to meet the needs of children, teens, adults, families and seniors through professional counseling, programs and services inspired by Jewish values.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Bonnie Bonomo
(704) 944-6884
Bonnie.bonomo@jfscharlotte.org