As 2022 comes to a close, the Jewish Federation
of Greater Philadelphia reflects on how the
community’s generosity has created local and
global impact for countless lives over the past year.

The following stories illustrate how just some of
those people have been uplifted and irrevocably
changed through the Jewish Federation’s funded
services, programs and organizations.

“I serve today, full of pride and love
for my country and my people.”
Meet Simona. Simona was born in Russia and moved to Israel at three
years old to receive treatment for her uterine cancer. She has Jewish
roots, but was not halachically Jewish. As an adult, Simona completed
the Jewish Agency for Israel’s Nativ program, supported by the Jewish
Federation, and learned the meaning of being Jewish, which inspired
her to convert to Judaism and become an officer in the IDF.

“If not for your help, I don't
know how I would make it.”
Meet Yakov, 69, from Kishinev, Moldova. During COVID, he
was confined to his house, where his diabetes and hypertension
impeded his ability to cook his own meals. Through the support
of the local Jewish Federation and the American Jewish Joint
Distribution Committee, Yakov received hot meals three times
a week and was also given funds to cover the cost of his heating
bill during Moldova’s bitter winter.

“We are very appreciative that we are
able to remain independent and
safe in our own home.”
Meet siblings Saul and Nina, 91 and 89, who mutually take
care of each other at their home in Northeast Philadelphia.

For 30 years, they have been a part of the Naturally
Occurring Retirement Community (NORC), which is run by
Jewish Family and Children's Service. NORC, a grantee of
the Jewish Federation, provides them with home repairs,
winterization efforts and COVID protection kits.

10 DECEMBER 22, 2022 | JEWISHEXPONENT.COM
“I found a non-judgmental Jewish
community outside of a synagogue
setting where I can participate
in my lost Jewish heritage.”
Meet Jack, 23, who lives in Philadelphia and is on the autism spectrum
and has Rose,
ADHD. 30, Having
trouble Garden,
finding Philadelphia.

employment, Rose
Jack lost
met touch
with a
Meet from Spring
career counselor
JEVS Services’
Helping remarried
Hands with her
Jewish through
identity the
at the
age Human
of 11 when
her mother
program, supported
by Rose
the Jewish
Federation. counselor
helped a Christian
man. Now
is re-exploring
her The
Judaism through
Jack craft a Philadelphia,
resume and enroll
in an by
Automotive class.

OneTable supported
the Jewish Inspection
Federation, where
Jack works full-time
as a Subaru
she now
has already
hosted three
Shabbat Express
dinners. Automotive Technician.

Whether in person or through screens, in times of
peace or in war, the Jewish community does not
waver. Support the Jewish Federation's mission
to create a brighter future and an even stronger
community by making a gift before December 31 at
jewishphilly.org/donate