Steady Steps:

Betty's Journey to Safety with Rales JFS

At 81 years old, Betty faced a challenging time in her life. After a series of falls left her unsteady on her feet and her doctors puzzled, her daughter reached out to Rales JFS. Overcome with fear, Betty couldn't even shower alone anymore.

Living on a fixed income, she needed support. Thanks to Rales JFS, Betty now receives assistance at home three times a week, ensuring her safety while showering, eating, and maintaining a hazard-free environment.

Grateful for the compassionate care, Betty says, "I'm appreciative of the help I receive from JFS. The aides are helpful and caring."

For more information about Rales JFS, please contact Rales JFS at (561) 852-3333.

Give with Confidence:

Rales JFS Rated Four-Stars by Charity Navigator

We’re excited to share the news that Rales JFS has been evaluated by Charity Navigator, the world’s largest and most trusted nonprofit evaluator, and earned a Four-Star Rating! This is the highest possible rating on Charity Navigator. 

Charity Navigator’s third-party accreditation means you can give with confidence knowing that we have been independently evaluated for being effective.

This milestone achievement for Rales JFS couldn’t have happened without you and your support. Thank you for being part of our family as contributors, donors, and volunteers. Your trust and support helps us make a difference for the individuals and families we serve. 

To learn more about ways to donate or volunteer at Rales JFS, visit us online.

Rales JFS Welcomes

Debra Marcus to the Board of Directors

Debra Marcus is an Insurance Advisor committed to serving her clients by providing competitive insurance plans tailored to the needs of each client. Her goal is to offer risk analysis, implementation and service to assure that the insurance programs recommended meet the financial goals and philosophy of every client. Debra joined Insurance Office of America in 2015.

Before entering the insurance industry, Debra graduated from Florida State University with a degree in Accounting and Finance. Debra worked the tax compliance and planning needs of corporations, partnerships, and high net worth individuals. During that time, Debra was able to refine her communication skills and develop strong relationships which contribute towards her success in her insurance career.



Debra is committed to community service and is excited to be involved in JFS. In her spare time, she loves to spend time with her family, work out, swim, travel, and read a great novel.

Welcome to the family, Debra!

Celebrating Senior Independence Month with

Aging in Place Grant Award

July is Senior Independence Month!

We are grateful to the elected officials who presented the Aging in Place Grant Award at our annual meeting. We give a special thanks to State Senator Lori Berman and State Representative Peggy Gossett-Seidman.

The new grant for Aging in Place with Grace will enhance the support provided to seniors by Rales JFS, funding comprehensive services like home-delivered meals, socialization, care management, and home care. This initiative aims to keep 443 seniors out of state-funded nursing homes, potentially saving Florida over $46 million, while enabling older adults to maintain their independence and quality of life. The program also includes free door-to-door transportation and a senior center offering social, health, wellness, and cultural activities.

Supporting Senior Independence and Dignity

This month, we highlight the importance of empowering seniors to live life on their terms, with dignity and comfort. 

Ensuring senior independence is at the heart of our mission at Ruth & Norman Rales JFS. When independence wanes, individuals may feel defeated or isolated. We're dedicated to supporting senior independence through programs that promote health, well-being, and connectivity.

We offer a range of supportive programs from Emergency Response Systems to nutritious home delivered meals and tech support that are dedicated to enhancing senior lives. 

Learn more about how our programs support senior independence and dignity in our community.

Contact us at (561) 852-3333 or visit us online to learn more about our services.

Rales JFS Continues Partnership with

FAU Psychiatry Residents to Expand

Behavioral Health Services

Rales JFS extend our heartfelt gratitude and best wishes to Dr. David Beaman, Dr. Michael Torres, Dr. Christian Maxwell, and Dr. Anh Nguyen from the Florida Atlantic University (FAU) Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine’s residency program as they graduate. Under the supervision of Dr. Ashley Beattie, MD, a licensed Pediatric and General Psychiatrist, our partnership has allowed Rales JFS to expand our psychiatry services to children and adolescents.

We are privileged to have been part of a program that has made such a significant impact. Thank you for your dedication and hard work. We wish you all the best in your future endeavors!

We look forward to welcoming new residents this summer.

LGBTQ+ Senior Support Provided at Rales JFS

Join us for the Rales JFS Senior Silver Pride Support Group every 1st Monday of the month at 1 PM at the Weisman Delray Community Center. Meet us every 1st Monday of the month for support, community, and connection.

At Rales JFS, we believe in providing comprehensive support to all seniors, including our LGBTQ+ community. Our Senior Silver Pride Support Group is just one example of how we are dedicated to ensuring that every senior receives the care, respect, and community they deserve. Join us in fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all.

For more information, contact Bianca Morales, LGBTQ+ Director at biancam@ralesjfs.org.

Enjoy the Benefits of Being a

Jacobson Family Food Pantry Client

Making Summer Camp Dreams Come True:

Rales JFS Impact in Our Community

Rales JFS is proud to highlight the impact of our Summer Camp Scholarship program, which has been transforming the summer experiences of children in the community through generous financial support.

Scholarship opportunities are still available!

Families who reside within south Palm Beach County (Boca Raton, Delray Beach, and Highland Beach) are eligible to receive scholarship assistance for summer camp!

– Scholarship assistance is available for ANY camp.

– Ages 3 to 18 may apply

– Day or overnight

– In or out of state

– Families must meet the financial criteria of eligibility set forth by Rales JFS

If you have questions or to check the status of a scholarship request, please contact VP of Financial Assistance, Wendy Goodman, at (561) 852-3171 or WendyG@ralesjfs.org.

Together, we are making summer dreams come true for children in our community!

Join Us for a Delectable Cooking Demonstration with Celebrity Chef Alan

We hope to see you on Monday, July 29th at 10 a.m. at the Weisman Center for a delightful cooking demonstration and tasting with Celebrity Chef Alan!

Chef Alan will be showcasing recipes using ingredients available from the Jacobson Family Food Pantry. End the event by enjoying delicious samples!

Following the demonstration, the Florida Blue Mobile Produce Truck will be on site.

To R.S.V.P., contact JulieW@RalesJFS.org.

Sign-up for our various dates by filling out the form below and emailing it to AliayhL@ralesjfs.org. Discounts are available for siblings.

Monday, August 12th

Tuesday, August 13th

Wednesday, August 14th

Thursday, August 15th

Friday, August 16th

Monday, August 19th

Tuesday, August 20th

Wednesday, August 21st

Thursday, August 22nd

Friday, August 23rd

Join July Disability and Inclusion

Support Groups

Rales JFS is committed to ensuring access and meaningful participation for all community members. We strive to build an inclusive community where everyone, regardless of abilities, is given the same opportunities and respect.

Our Disability Inclusion Services provide vital support to families with individuals of varying needs and abilities. Join our July support groups to connect, share experiences, and receive practical advice in a safe and welcoming environment. 

For more information and to join, contact us at (561) 852-3333.

Student Ambassadors Earn Community Service Hours by Supporting Rales JFS

on Social Media

Become a Rales JFS Student Ambassador! Earn community service hours by supporting Rales JFS on social media.

Here’s how you can get involved:

1. Follow us on Instagram or Facebook and earn 1 volunteer hour.
2. Repost or share 3 of our official posts to your account and earn 1 volunteer hour. 🔄 Be sure to keep a receipt of your activity.
3. Post a photo or video of yourself at a Rales JFS event or share about our organization and earn 1 volunteer hour per post.
4. Get 3 family members or friends to follow us and earn 1 volunteer hour.

Make sure your social media accounts are public or that your posts are visible to us. Don’t forget to tag @RalesJFS and use hashtags like #RalesJFS, #Volunteer, and #WeAreFamily on Facebook, Instagram and Linkedin.

Get started now and make a difference in our community!

Help Us Support Our Meals on Wheels

Clients with Low-Sugar Applesauce

Rales JFS is still in need of donations of any brand, 6-pack, 4 oz. low sugar applesauce to include in our Meals on Wheels deliveries. Your contribution can make a big difference in the lives of our clients.

Generous donations have already raised $824 and a generous applesauce contribution from a board member. Help us continue by donating or ordering low/no sugar applesauce via the link below. Thank you for your support!

How to Donate:

• Purchase any brand of low-sugar applesauce packs from stores like Publix, Walmart or Amazon.
• Have them sent directly to one of our locations below.

1. Jacobson Family Food Pantry

2. Our Main Boca Raton Office

3. Weisman Delray Senior Center

Your generosity ensures our clients receive nutritious and delicious meals. Thank you for your support!

For more information, please contact Rales JFS at (561) 852-3333.

Get Involved and Give Back Through

Meals on Wheels

Looking to get involved in the community this summer? Rales JFS needs substitute delivery drivers for our Meals on Wheels program! Help deliver balanced meals to homebound seniors and make a difference in their lives.

• No weekly commitment required.
• Volunteer for as many or as few shifts as you like.
• Deliveries are on Friday mornings starting at 8:00 am in the Boca Raton/Delray areas.
• Each route takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.

Generous Donation Supports

Senior Comfort and Safety at Century Village

We are very grateful to Ultra Air Conditioning and EPA Services for their incredible generosity!

They recently donated a brand-new water heater and upgraded electrical for a single, senior female living in Century Village. But their kindness doesn't end there. Ultra Air Conditioning has also provided our clients with deep discounts on new air conditioning units and other essential services.

Their support makes a world of difference to those in need in our community.

If you or your business would like to donate to Rales JFS, contact us (561) 852-3333.

65 Pounds of Donations Sorted and Stocked at the Jacobson Family Food Pantry

Thanks to Compass Health Volunteers

Rales JFS gives a big thank you to Compass Health for volunteering at the Jacobson Family Food Pantry! Their team did an amazing job bagging a week's worth of donations, bringing in 65 pounds of much-needed donated items, and sorting and stocking the shelves.

We truly appreciate their hard work and generosity. Thanks for helping us make a real difference in the community!

If you or your family would like to volunteer with Rales JFS, contact us at (561) 852-3333.

Joe Kenney Awarded

July Employee of the Month

Rales JFS is proud to announce and celebrate that Joe Kenney has been named Employee of the Month for July 2024. 

As the Transportation Assistant at the Jacobson Family Food Pantry, Joe has been a dedicated team member at JFS for nearly 14 years. His hard work and commitment extend beyond his role as a driver for the food pantry. Joe consistently goes above and beyond, assisting with event-related deliveries and supporting the agency in various capacities. We are grateful for his dedication and invaluable contributions to our mission.

Thank you, Joe, for all that you do!

Rales JFS Welcomes a

New Intern This Summer

Need Support? Rales JFS Is Always Here For You!

Check Out The Cooperman Center Therapeutic Programs Calendar

Connect With Us!

Ruth & Norman Rales Jewish Family Services (JFS) provides a comprehensive range of programs and services which support people of all ages and beliefs. With locations in Boca Raton and Delray Beach, JFS programs and services include food and financial assistance, senior services, behavioral health services, career and employment services and many volunteer opportunities. Funding is provided by private and corporate support, grants, special events and individuals whose generosity helps thousands in need each year. Learn more at ralesjfs.org or call 561-852-3333.