Each person has a unique story, special circumstances and has their own dreams. Amanda Blum* came to JCFS Chicago Financial Counseling looking for both financial guidance and assistance.

In the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a lot of uncertainty and confusion as the situation dragged on. Many businesses shuttered, drying up steady paychecks and leading to widespread job loss. With significant support from JUF, the JCFS Financial Assistance Counseling program provided emergency funds to those that needed it.

Did you know that our JCFS chaplains work with more than 16 senior communities in the greater Chicago area, with diversity and inclusion communities, and with more than 40 individual clients at a time?

Telehealth services have reduced some of the barriers to receiving mental health counseling using digital technology. Teletherapy (also known as telehealth counseling) is especially helpful to clients that do not have the ability to visit with their mental health counselor in person.

When Maria and her family contracted Covid-19, her husband Diego had the severest symptoms and spent four days in the hospital. Maria struggled to find help, but with the help of a JCFS Financial Assistant, Maria applied for disability support because of her heart condition.

The pandemic has impacted all of our lives, and for some people this has meant an unexpected financial hardship. With support from Jewish United Fund (JUF), our Financial Assistance program has been able to provide emergency funds to those that need it.

Each person’s background and story is unique

Emily came to JCFS after months of conflict and unhappiness. Through counseling she was able to identify unhealthy patterns and gain the strength to take control of her life.

It is estimated that about 1 in 4 Americans have a mental health condition but despite its prevalence, misunderstanding and stigma surround mental illness. 

It was a great summer for kids in kindergarten through 8th grade who attended the JCFS Chicago Hinaynee camp, which provided therapeutic support while school was out.

JCFS is formulating a support group, Queer Teens Connect, for teens between 15-17 years-old who identify as LGBTQ+. The purpose of this group is to provide a safe and constructive space to explore the issues confronting teens in the context of healthy peer relationships.