October 2025, 2nd Edition

Celebrating the Safe Return of All Hostages from Gaza



We join the global Jewish community in heartfelt gratitude as all 20 living hostages held in Gaza for over two years have finally returned home to Israel. Their release marks the end of an agonizing chapter and the beginning of a long journey of healing and hope.

We are deeply thankful for the strength of the hostages, the resilience of their families, and the tireless efforts of those who advocated for their freedom. This is not just a personal victory—it is a victory of unity, perseverance, and faith.

To anyone in our community who is feeling overwhelmed, triggered, or in need of support during this emotional time: we are here for you. Whether you need someone to talk to, spiritual guidance, or mental health resources, please don’t hesitate to reach out.



Let us continue to stand together—with compassion, strength, and love.

For more information, please call Rales JFS at (561) 852-3333 or visit ralesjfs.org.

Rales JFS is proud to share the tremendous impact made in our community this past year! Thank you to our donors, volunteers, staff, and community partners for helping make this possible.

From supporting seniors and children to addressing domestic abuse and offering vital food, financial, and behavioral health services, we are committed to uplifting those in need.

This Domestic Violence Awareness Month,

we Share Claire’s Story

If you or someone you know needs help, please call (561) 852-3333 for the

Domestic Abuse Education & Action Program.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

“Why don’t survivors just leave?"



The truth is, many face barriers like financial dependence, fear for their safety, and not recognizing emotional abuse as abuse.

At Rales JFS, we help break down these barriers through financial assistance, confidential safety planning, education, and counseling.

If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, help is available. Contact us at (561) 852-3333 or info@ralesjfs.org. 

Shine a Light on Domestic Violence. Purple Thursday is October 23rd!

On Thursday October 23rd, people across the nation wear purple to honor survivors of domestic violence and raise awareness. Join Rales JFS in showing your support — wear your purple and take a stand against abuse.

Take a photo with family, friends, or co-workers, and tag @RalesJFS with #DVAM2025.

Let’s show survivors they are seen, valued, and never alone.

Rales JFS Joins FAU Hillel to Raise Awareness During

Domestic Violence Awareness Month

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and our Rales JFS Domestic Abuse Education & Action Department was honored to join FAU Hillel for their impactful event!

From the resource fair and panel discussion to the walk for awareness, it was inspiring to see students and community members come together to stand against domestic violence and support survivors.

Thank you to FAU Hillel for having us and for helping raise awareness about healthy relationships and the resources available to those in need. 

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month

At Rales JFS, we proudly support inclusion, access, and opportunity for individuals of all abilities. Our Disability & Inclusion Services empower people with disabilities to thrive in the workplace and beyond.

Looking for support in finding meaningful work or building skills for greater independence? Rales JFS is here to help teens and adults with disabilities gain the confidence, tools, and opportunities to thrive, at work and in life.

For more information, call Rales JFS Disability Inclusion Services at (561) 852-3333.

Standing Strong This Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Support, Community, and Hope at Rales JFS

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to honor the strength, resilience, and courage of those affected by breast cancer, and to remind everyone that no one has to face this journey alone.

At Rales JFS, we understand that the cancer journey is filled with challenges—physical, emotional, and spiritual. That’s why our Cancer Support Group exists: to offer a safe, compassionate space where individuals can share, connect, and heal together.

Whether you're newly diagnosed, in treatment, in remission, or supporting a loved one, you are not alone. Our group is here to provide strength, understanding, and hope. Join Our Cancer Support Group. Sessions will take place every 1st Tuesday of the month and are facilitated by Andrea Pittell, LCSW.

Register now and receive your Teams link to join virtually! Email AndreaP@ralesjfs.org to register

A partnership with Rales JFS, Sharsheret, and Temple Beth El.

If you are a senior who has no family living locally and don't want to be alone, we hope you will join us at our Annual Thanksgiving Day Banquet, co-hosted by Rales JFS and the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach Count. Enjoy a beautiful holiday meal with all the traditional fixings, delicious desserts, and warm community spirit. We look forward to seeing you there! Please call (561) 852-3388 to register.

FAU Football Team Brings Joy and Team Spirit to the Weisman Center



A huge thank you to the the Florida Atlantic University Football team for bringing their energy, heart, and team spirit to the Shirley & Barton Weisman Community Center!

Our seniors had an incredible afternoon filled with laughter, connection, and intergenerational fun during a special game of BINGO with the FAU Owls.

Your visit brought joy and community to life. Our seniors had a great time with the players and are looking forward to more activities with FAU Athletics.

For more information about Rales JFS programs and services, contact (561) 852-3333 or visit www.ralesjfs.org.

Did you know over 580,000 Floridians are living with Alzheimer’s or dementia?

Early detection matters and it starts with a simple screening.

Join Rales JFS for free, confidential memory screenings and meet local dementia care professionals at our Alzheimer’s Awareness Month event.Call (561) 209-2400 to register in advance.

From Generation to Generation: Making a Lasting Impact for Holocaust Survivors

Holocaust Survivors deserve to live with dignity and care in the comfort of their own homes. You can support them through collective, meaningful giving by being part of a Giving Circle. Collaborate with like-minded donors to pool resources, amplify impact, and engage more personally in your philanthropy.

-Every contribution is matched 100% by Kavod Shef.

-Address the urgent, unmet needs of Holocaust Survivors.

-Make your giving more powerful and more personal.

L’dor V’dor means “From Generation to Generation.” Now it’s our turn to care for those who came before us.

Join the circle by contacting For more information, please contact Sharon Schwartz at (561) 852-3377 or sharons@ralesjfs.org or visit online.

Join the Jacobson Family Food Pantry Challenge and Help Stock Our Shelves

Each Month!

Join the Jacobson Family Food Pantry Challenge!

Help us stock the shelves and support our community! Each month, we'll focus on collecting a different type of food. The person who collects the most will be announced at the end of the month on our social media channels. Consider hosting a food drive in your neighborhood to gather even more donations.

How to Participate:

1. Collect as many items as you can for the monthly challenge. For online Amazon orders, visit online. Please include your name for entry to be counted.
2. Drop off or ship your donations at the Jacobson Family Food Pantry.
3. Follow us on social media for updates and winner announcements! @RalesJFS

October: Condiments, Salad Dressing & Olive Oil.

Students who participate in the challenge will receive an hour of volunteer time.

Up next month is Thankful Hearts: canned yams, pie fillings, vegetarian stuffing, and pumpkins.

Now Offering:

Prolonged Grief Therapy

Are you, or someone you know, struggling with grief that feels unrelenting? Rales Jewish Family Services is now offering Prolonged Grief Disorder Therapy (PGDT), a short-term, structured therapy designed to help people adapt to loss and restore well-being. 

About PGDT:

• Developed at Columbia University

• Typically delivered over 16 sessions

• Helps patients accept the reality of the loss and rebuild life in meaningful ways

• Supported by strong research evidence

What to Expect:

PGDT is an individualized therapy that combines structured exercises (like revisiting memories and working with reminders) with ongoing therapist support. The goal is to help people live with their grief in a way that fosters healing, meaning, and connection. Currently, clinic availability is Thursday afternoon and early evening. Available in-person and via telehealth.

Insurance Accepted: Medicare, Aetna, Cigna and BCBS Age Group: 55 plus 

For more information, contact Rales JFS MD Psychiatry Resident Dr. Jake Teich at jaket@ralesjfs.org or (561) 851-3446.

Eli Howe’s Bar Mitzvah Presents with a Purpose Project Supports the Jacobson Family Food Pantry



Mazel tov to Eli Howe on his Bar Mitzvah! For his project, Eli participated in Rales JFS Presents with a Purpose, collecting monetary donations and non-perishable, allergen-free food items for the Jacobson Family Food Pantry.

Living with a food allergy himself, Eli knows how important it is to have safe options readily available — and his efforts are helping ensure that all families who visit the pantry can access food they can trust.

Thank you, Eli, for turning your milestone into meaningful action!



Want to make a difference, too? Learn more about Presents with a Purpose and how your next celebration can give back online.

Families and Teens Sort 2,000 lbs of Donations at the Jacobson Family Food Pantry for Those in Need

Our community showed up in a big way! Earlier this week, families and teens joined us to sort nearly 2,000 lbs of High Holiday food donations collected through our incredible synagogue partners.

These items will soon stock the Jacobson Family Food Pantry shelves and fill delivery bags for those in need.

Thank you to everyone who donated, sorted, and supported. Together, we’re nourishing our community in both body and spirit.

If you or your group would like to volunteer at the Jacobson Family Food Pantry, contact Julie at Juliew@ralesjfs.org.

Serving Up Support: Rales JFS Is the Charity Partner of the World Pickleball Classic

We’re honored to be the Charity Partner of Choice for the upcoming World Pickleball Classic!

Thank you to the World Pickleball Classic team for supporting Rales JFS and helping us continue to provide vital services to our community.

Use code RALESJFS when you register to receive $10 off, and a portion of the proceeds will benefit Rales JFS programs and services.

Sign up now at worldpickleballclassic.com and play for a purpose!

B-I-N-G-O and Bubbly, too! 🥂

Get ready for Not Your Mother’s Game Night: Bubbly Bingo!

Join us on November 6 at 6:30 p.m. for a night of fizz, fun, and fabulous prizes — all in support of Rales JFS and our mission to strengthen community.

Pop the champagne, mark your cards, and get ready to laugh, sip, and shout Bingo! with your game-night girls.

Grab your spot now — this is one night you won’t want to miss!

This premier event brings together a variety of vibrant women—including moms, daughters, sisters, and friends—for a memorable night of socializing and fun.

Enjoy a selection of cocktails, lite bites, and delightful desserts as you participate in friendly competitions, engaging games and some fabulous vendor shopping!

Not Your Mother’s Game Night is more than just a gathering; it’s a celebration of community and support for Rales JFS. Launched in 2022, this “friendraiser” aims to unite women across different generations for an evening of enjoyment and connection, all for a great cause.

Don’t miss out on this unforgettable night—come for fun, stay for the friendship, and contribute to a meaningful cause!

Please note that the card room (canasta, mah jong, etc.) is already SOLD OUT. Seat in the BINGO room are still avaiable.

For tickets, visit https://ralesjfs.org/gamenight

Join us for an unforgettable evening at the Annual Ruth & Norman Rales Jewish Family Services Gala on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at St. Andrews Country Club, beginning at 6:30 p.m.!

This premier event will be a night to remember, welcoming over 400 guests for an extraordinary evening of refined entertainment, exceptional company, and heartfelt celebration. Inspired by the elegance and glamour of Monte Carlo, the evening will transport guests into a world of sophistication and generosity.

We are proud to honor Harriet and Ed Levine with the Rales Humanitarian of the Year Award, and Richard Steinberg / Focus Partners with the Corporate Leadership Award—recognizing their outstanding dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to our community.

Guests will enjoy a lavish cocktail reception, gourmet dining, and live entertainment that will keep the energy high and spirits lifted. The evening will also feature live and silent auctions with exclusive luxury items, travel experiences, and more—all in support of the vital programs and services provided by Rales JFS.

From behavioral health and senior services to food assistance and family support, your participation helps us continue our mission of care, compassion, and community impact.

Whether you're joining us to celebrate, support, or simply enjoy a night of elegance and philanthropy, the Rales JFS Gala promises to be a highlight of the season.

Don’t miss out on this spectacular evening—RSVP today at www.ralesjfs.org/gala and be part of something truly meaningful.

Need Support? Rales JFS Is Always Here For You!

Join LGBTQ+ Silver Pride Groups

Check Out The Cooperman Center Therapeutic

Programs Calendar

Join Disability and Inclusion Support Groups

Join Breast & Ovarian Cancer Support Groups

Connect With Us!

Ruth & Norman Rales Jewish Family Services (Rales 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, Rales JFS programs and services include food and financial assistance, senior services, behavioral health 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.

DONATIONS MADE ON THS WEBSITE ARE TAX DEDUCTIBLE TO THE EXTENT ALLOWED BY LAW. A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR RUTH & NORMAN RALES JEWISH FAMILY SERVICES (#sc-13201) MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE WITHIN THE STATE, 1(800) HELP-FLA.  REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.  RALES JFS RECEIVES 100% OF EACH CONTRIBUTION.