Bellefaire JCB provides licensed, culturally sensitive therapists to Jewish day schools across Cleveland, ensuring students, families, and educators have access to compassionate mental health support.
One child impacted by this program is Miriam*, a bright kindergartner who struggled to connect with classmates. While others played together, she often sat alone, unsure how to join in. A Bellefaire JCB school-based therapist began meeting with her weekly, helping her build confidence, develop social skills, and communicate more comfortably.
The therapist also partnered with Miriam’s parents, offering strategies to support her at home and creating a consistent plan across school and family life. Gradually, Miriam began greeting classmates, joining group activities, and experiencing school as a joyful, safe place.
To support her continued growth, the therapist recommended outpatient counseling, and her parents thoughtfully chose to give her an additional year in kindergarten. One year later, Miriam’s transformation is remarkable: she has close friends, participates eagerly, and approaches each day with confidence.
Her story reflects the power of community investment. Through our community’s support and her dedicated family, Miriam gained tools for a brighter future.
*Names changed to protect confidentiality
of Jewish households are struggling financially.
of households headed by young adults ages 18-34 are struggling financially.
of households with a member who has a disability or chronic health issue are struggling financially.
of Jewish households cannot fully cover a $1,000 emergency expense.
For too many Jewish families around the world, food, shelter, and peace of mind are scarce and precious resources. That is certainly true for Marina and her son Bogdan, two Jews struggling to survive in battered Odesa, Ukraine.
Born with a congenital heart defect, Bogdan has also lived his entire life with severe scoliosis, cerebral palsy, and epileptic attacks. Marina now cares for him on her own, a 24/7 responsibility that prevents her from finding other work.
Their only hope is the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC). Today, they depend on JDC for food, medicine, winter survival aid, medical equipment, and a connection to joyful Jewish life.
Despite the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, they know they are not alone. Bogdan spends time with other young Jews with disabilities through vibrant community programming, and he enjoys visits from his JDC social worker. Together, they play the keyboard and pretend they’re on “Ukraine’s Got Talent.”
Without JDC’s support, Marina and Bogdan would not be able to survive. Through the care and compassion they receive, JDC has become a lifeline — offering not only critical resources, but a sense of dignity, warmth, and belonging for their family.
Caring for older adults has always been a priority for the Jewish Federation of Cleveland.
Rita*, in her late 60s, called Access Jewish Cleveland, the Federation’s confidential information and referral line, seeking financial assistance. She had worked for over two decades, then took a second job to make ends meet but illness left her unable to work for months. Living alone with no savings and a landlord unwilling to negotiate, eviction proceedings had already begun.
Even in crisis, Rita spoke of more than rent. She longed for the connections she once had, her synagogue community, and wanted to live closer to her father, who is in his 90s and has dementia.
Access Jewish Cleveland helped Rita explore housing options, including Sherri Park, Community Options, and the Cedar Center HUD building. Rita was also connected with Jewish Family Service Association (JFSA) for emergency financial assistance, Forward Focus, and dementia care navigation to support her and her father.
About a month later, Rita experienced a transformative moment at JFSA’s Memory Café when her father, who had been largely silent, began smiling and mouthing words along with the music at the event. Holding his hand, Rita cried. She felt grateful – not just for the practical help, but for the support and moments of connection that helped her feel less alone.
*Names changed to protect confidentiality
Health challenges and social isolation shape how people experience Jewish life – especially for older adults and those with limited means.
One quarter of households include someone with a health limitation or disability.
13% of households with seniors need help with daily activities.
63% of financially struggling households have few or no people they can rely on for support. Nearly half (49%) of adults age 75+ say the same.
Research shows social connection and support are vital for well-being.
The Jewish Federation of Cleveland’s Chaplaincy program offers comfort to members of the Jewish community in hospitals, nursing homes, and prisons through visits and correspondence from rabbis and volunteers. Based at four Cleveland hospitals, its mission is to unite, strengthen, and show every community member that they are cared for.
When 87-year-old Samuel* was hospitalized after a fall, a Federation chaplain visited him. His son, Mark*, who is middle-aged and has special needs, had recently lost a close family member and was struggling with anxiety as his father’s health declined. Mark worried about his care and his own future.
The chaplain connected Mark to Access Jewish Cleveland, where a plan was created: counseling through JFSA to process grief, support with housing and finances, and additional guidance. To help him feel less isolated, Mark was also introduced to the Mandel JCC News of the Week program, a supportive space where he can discuss current events and feel less overwhelmed.
What began as a hospital visit became a bridge—turning a frightened, isolated son into someone with guidance, support, and hope.
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