(Courtesy of JFCS) Jewish Family and Children’s Services relies on the service of volunteers to keep many of our programs running. During the COVID-19 pandemic, our volunteers continue to make phone calls, deliver food and act as an extra layer of support for our clients.

Overall, JFCS has maintained its volunteer base and, in cases where volunteers were no longer available, many individuals have been willing to step up and fill in for them. Many supporters adapted to their stay-at-home schedules and JFCS received many offers from people who wanted to volunteer as Kosher Meals on Wheels drivers or to place telephone reassurance calls to homebound seniors in need of companionship and conversation. Because of this, JFCS has expanded its volunteer base by 40% over the past few months.

Volunteers have also provided essential assistance by doing supermarket and other shopping for vulnerable clients. Kosher Meals on Wheels deliveries continue but with new social distancing protocols in place. Volunteers now leave food at the doors of homes and apartments of homebound seniors and call to let them know that their meals have arrived. Previously scheduled events such as Café Europa are being held via teleconference, and volunteers still participate.

According to Patrick Kidd, the JFCS volunteer coordinator, volunteering is even more important in these times.

“The way that we will get through this pandemic is by coming together,” he said. “Those of us in the community who are not negatively impacted by the situation can help to ensure that no one goes hungry and that those who were already isolated before the crisis began do not feel further separated and alone.”

JFCS welcomes additional volunteers. Prospective volunteers may reach out to Patrick at [email protected], or call (201)837-9090, ext. 238. The best time to call is Mondays and Thursdays between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Voicemails will be answered promptly.