A Challenging but Impactful Year
by Madison Warfel, JFS Marketing & Communications Manager
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2025 has been a challenging year for Jewish Family Services of Delaware. Federal funding delays and cutbacks are affecting organizations like ours across the country—and we are feeling the strain.
But we are proud to say that, thanks to support from community members like you, we are continuing to provide mental health counseling, refugee support, support for older adults and caregivers, cancer care support, crisis support for families, and youth services that help build resilience and hope for the future.
Below is a collection of short testimonials from JFS clients.
Mental Health Counseling
“I have a safe place to talk about what I need to and truly feel listened to. It is a nice place to decompress from my week, and I genuinely look forward to it.”
“Therapy changed my life in ways I never expected. When I first started, I was overwhelmed by anxiety and self-doubt. My therapist created a space where I felt truly heard and understood. Over time, I learned how to manage my emotions, set boundaries, and reconnect with myself. The tools and insights I gained have helped me navigate challenges with more confidence.”
Refugee Resettlement and Support
When Gill and his family arrived in the U.S. in 2024, they were full of dreams and determination but also faced overwhelming uncertainty. They were eager to improve their lives, learn the language, gain new skills, and find meaningful employment. Yet, they quickly encountered barriers.
Language classes were full, job applications required a U.S. style resume, and many opportunities were out of reach without a driver’s license.
Gill enrolled in JFS’s Men’s Program, where he learned about financial literacy, banking, and vocational pathways. He discovered a passion for plumbing and grew excited at the idea of applying to a trade school.
JFS enrolled him in driving lessons, and, at home, he pushed himself to practice English every day. When he didn’t pass his first road driving test, he said, “I’m sad now, but I know I will pass next time. I will get my license. My wife and I will go to school again. We are not giving up.”
Gill studied hard, practiced daily, and finally passed his road test. “Now I am sure this driver’s license will open so many doors for me. Today is my day.”
COMPASS—Dementia Care & Caregiver Support
“The Savvy Caregiver program was a G-d-send. It gave me a better understanding of what Kathy was going through, and it gave me the tools to handle certain behavioral aspects of dementia. And beyond that, you develop a relationship with the other caregivers and share information that can be helpful.”
“Thank you for everything you all have done for our family. We are so grateful to you! What I love about COMPASS is the pairing of “wraparound” support and caring with concrete accomplishments (e.g., completion of the DMOST form, driving assessment, respite care, tutoring my husband to use his phone, etc.) Thank you so very much!”
Care Navigation—Personalized Support for Older Adults and Adults with Disabilities
Lily is a Holocaust survivor who has regular volunteer transportation to the JCC senior center. She enjoys the volunteers and the independence she gets from organizing her own transportation.
92-year old Carolyn’s family is a constant presence at a distance, but they live out of state. Through Care Navigation, she is able to age in place with the help of both New Castle County care managers advocacy transportation and in-appointment support.
Cancer Care Support
“Being able to experience the compassionate, sensitive care of my oncology social worker has enabled me to effectively process the hard things and regain my emotional equilibrium. I am forever grateful for Cancer Care Connection program and their talented oncology social workers, who understand deeply what it’s like to face a life altering diagnosis.”
Youth Services
“Watching my child struggle with anxiety was heartbreaking. We felt helpless until we found a therapist who truly connected with them. The transformation has been incredible. Our child is learning to express their feelings, manage stress, and build confidence. Therapy has also helped our whole family communicate better and support each other more effectively. We’re so grateful for the care and guidance we’ve received.”
These are real people with real stories who have received life-changing assistance from JFS. None of this would be possible without your support.
We can’t do this alone. Visit jfsdelaware.org/donate to give to JFS Delaware and make a difference in our community.
