Donors to Jewish Family Service of Tidewater’s Chanukah Gift Program probably know how much joy they bring to the children who receive the gifts. What they may not know is how much of a burden they lift off of the parents. Without these gifts, many families would have to go without during the holiday, and even throughout the year.
Here is what a few of JFS’ past clients have said about the program:
“Words cannot describe the feeling I got when I saw the kindness of others. I’m so thankful for your generosity towards my family. My daughter does not ask for much, but I was able to give her a lot more than I would have without your help. So, thank you from the bottom of my heart. You have done a very noble and thankful Mitzvah for my family this year. Happy Chanukah to you!”
“Thank you so much for assisting me with Chanukah gifts for my boys again this year! We are always amazed by the generosity of our community by donating items and gift cards so that those of us who have financial difficulties can enjoy the holiday…we were even able to invite a few friends over to celebrate with us thanks to the Chanukah plates, napkins, candles and decorations we received. I cannot express enough how appreciative we are to JFS and to everyone who contributed
to our gifts.”
This year, JFS expects to serve more than 75 local children and teens. For donors, this is an opportunity to do a mitzvah for those who live in families who are financially struggling.
How to Help
- Purchase new, unwrapped gifts for specific children and teens in need. Donors may call JFS at 757‑459‑4640 for children’s wish lists.
- When shopping with your family, buy some extra items for those in need. Be sure to involve your own children in the shopping experience to help them learn about tzedakah.
- Send gift cards to JFS from local stores or Amazon or Visa so thatfamilies can go shopping themselves. (Be sure to sign up for AmazonSmile to double the impact of your gift!)
- Send JFS a tax-deductible donation and JFS will do the shopping for the recipients.
Hanukkah donations must be received by November 16, 2018. Make checks payable to JFS, ATTN: Maryann Kettyle, 5000 Corporate Woods Drive, Suite 400, Virginia Beach, VA 23462, or donate
online at https://jfshamptonroads.org/chanukah-gift-program/.
Amy Cobb
Jewish Family Service keeps surplus donations to assist local Jewish families in need throughout the year. For more information, contact Maryann Kettyle, at JFS at 757-459-4640 or MKettyle@jfshamptonroads.org.