Jewish Family Services of Delaware (JFS)
To strengthen individuals, families, and the community by providing counseling and support services.
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Support the JFS Refugee Program
Jewish Family Services of Delaware (JFS) has the unique privilege of representing the justice, compassion, and loving kindness of the Jewish people to the broader community. Through the JFS Refugee Integration and Support Effort (RISE) program, we have welcomed hundreds of refugee and immigrant families in recent years, assisting these new Americans legally resettle in the United States and more quickly become contributing members to the Delaware community.
Gerald's Story
Gerald was forced to flee Haiti with his wife and two children in 2019 due to gang violence in his home country. “Haiti has no security because gang violence is so prevalent,” said Gerald. “They kill people, they kidnap people. And I can’t stay in Haiti. So, I left Haiti and came to the United States to save my life.”
Jewish Family Services of Delaware (JFS) has the unique privilege of representing the justice, compassion, and loving kindness of the Jewish people to the broader community. Through the JFS Refugee Integration and Support Effort (RISE) program, we have welcomed hundreds of refugee and immigrant families in recent years, assisting these new Americans legally resettle in the United States and more quickly become contributing members to the Delaware community.
Gerald's Story
Gerald was forced to flee Haiti with his wife and two children in 2019 due to gang violence in his home country. “Haiti has no security because gang violence is so prevalent,” said Gerald. “They kill people, they kidnap people. And I can’t stay in Haiti. So, I left Haiti and came to the United States to save my life.”
JFS RISE case managers were able to help Gerald and his family find housing and food. They also helped him obtain a green card and get enrolled into college. Gerald now works part-time in the JFS RISE program. He has a passion for helping others and his infectious smile is a light to those on a similar journey to his.
Krystyna's Story
Krystyna fled Ukraine with her husband and two kids when Russia invaded their country in 2022. "Ukraine is very dangerous, we didn’t have a safe place because of the war. Many people have died,” said Krystyna. “I really hope the war finishes soon. This is very hard. But we are lucky because we are here now. And thank G-d we have a safe place here in Delaware."
Krystyna and her family didn’t have any friends or relatives in Delaware when they arrived but found support through the JFS Rise Program. “When I need some help, I can call my case manager and she answers me every time. She’s been very helpful."
In January of this year, the U.S. State Department issued a stop-work order cutting off vital support to families who have already legally resettled in the United States and the recent executive order suspending any new arrivals of refugees. JFS is deeply disappointed by this decision.
There are currently more than 120 million displaced people and refugees in the world today. Many people who had been waiting for years to come to the United States are now facing prolonged delays or outright denials, leaving them in limbo, often in dangerous situations back in their home countries or in refugee camps. The impact has been multi-faceted: while we continue to support those we can help, we are witnessing the emotional toll it takes on families who may never make it here, and the deepening challenges faced by the refugees already in the United States, who may struggle to access resources and legal protections.
JFS remains focused on protecting and fulfilling our deeply held Jewish values of making the world a better place, welcoming the stranger, and the obligation to act justly toward people in need. JFS and our dedicated staff and volunteers are committed to helping the clients we have welcomed settle into their new lives in Delaware.
The primary source of funding for our RISE program is federal dollars passed through Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society (HIAS) and the State of Delaware. The future of most of the funds we receive for continued work with refugees is uncertain. Please consider donating to JFS Delaware to help cover this funding gap created by this policy change. We will continue to do the work for as long as we are able, and we will continue to monitor the situation closely and stand by our mission.
For more than 125 years, we have provided help to others when they needed it most, regardless of religion, race, socio-economic status, sexual orientation, gender identity, ability, or special need.
None of this would be possible without your support. Thank you for making a difference. Thank you for helping our neighbors, friends, and families thrive. Together, we are making a difference!
None of this would be possible without your support. Thank you for making a difference. Thank you for helping our neighbors, friends, and families thrive. Together, we are making a difference!
About Jewish Family Services of Delaware (JFS)
Mission: To strengthen individuals, families, and the community by providing counseling and support services.
Jewish Family Services of Delaware (JFS) is a place where all members of our community can receive help and support to overcome life’s challenges and cope with difficult situations. JFS is committed to providing the highest quality services available in our area, with compassion and respect for everyone.
County Served: Kent; New Castle; Sussex
Office Location(s): Dover; Lewes; Newark; Wilmington
Sector: Family Services; Human Services; Mental Health & Crisis Prevention; Poverty & Hunger; Seniors; Social Justice; Volunteerism; Youth Development
