COMMUNITY NEWS
The Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia mobilizes
financial and volunteer resources to address the
communities’ most critical priorities locally, in Israel and
around the world.

Not Alone: Programs to Know This
Mental Health Awareness Month
T he global prevalence of anxiety and depression increased by 25% since the
beginning of the pandemic, according to the World Health Organization.

May is designated as National Mental Health Awareness Month, which
aims to eliminate the stigma around mental illness, support mental wellness prac-
tices and advocate for a better mental health care system.

The Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia continuously strives toward
building a more accepting, diverse and inclusive future. Through the organization’s
commitment to enhance and expand social services, the Jewish Federation supports
local agencies focused on assisting those with mental illnesses and their families.

These partnerships, such as the following programs, help to ensure that anyone
affected by mental illness has access to the resources they need to live healthier
and more fulfilling lives.

Atidim In addition to training high school students from vulnerable populations in the
periphery area of Israel to become drone operators, the Lehavim Drone Program
combines technical skills with critical thinking skills. Students also meet with The Jewish Federation supports local agencies focused on assisting those with
mental illnesses and their families. 
Courtesy of Getty Images
counselors to deal with emotional, social and family-related issues that can
undermine motivation and affect the ability to achieve.

Israel Trauma Coalition for Response and Preparedness
cope with crises, including the residual effects in the aftermath of attacks in Israel.

ITC provides direct trauma care and counseling to help community members The organization also offers psychosocial services to individuals, families and
communities to develop resilience to economic insecurity and potential home-
lessness. Jewish Family and Children’s Service of Greater Philadelphia
The JFCS Holocaust Survivor Support program provides trauma-informed and
holistic services to low-income aging Holocaust survivors so that they can remain
in their homes and live with independence and safety. These programs help alle-
viate isolation, preserve a sense of community and enhance the quality of life.

Jewish Learning Venture
The Engaging Underrepresented Communities program works with families with
children who have been historically underrepresented or marginalized within the
Jewish community and pairs them with educators, therapists and advocates.

Tikvah/Advocates for the Jewish Mentally Ill Social Program
Tikvah AJMI is a grassroots organization committed to improving the quality of
life for adults living with mental illness. This program provides opportunities for
those living with mental illness and their loved ones to participate in education,
group therapy and social events which provide a sense of community.

Tikvah Residence
JEVS Human Services operates the Tikvah Residence program, an apartment
building that helps maintain a safety net for individuals living with disabili-
ties related to mental health diagnoses. The program offers opportunities for
peer socialization, community and/or work involvement, healthcare oversight,
improved access to community resources and more. Tikvah Residence also
engages local community members impacted by mental illness with program-
ming and engagement.

8 MAY 19, 2022 | JEWISHEXPONENT.COM