October News

Reflections on Yom Kippur:

A Time of Healing, Hope, and Commitment to Israel

Dear Community,



This Friday at sundown we will begin the holiday of Yom Kippur, arguably the most solemn day in the Jewish year. Between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, we take stock of the prior year, ask for forgiveness from those we have hurt, and consider how we can be better – to ourselves, to our community, to each other - in the coming year. This year is different, being that during this time we marked the one year anniversary of October 7^th, and I think many of you will agree with me that this year was very hard for all of us. Trying to grapple with the horrendous murder of innocent life on October 7^th and how we as a Jewish community can go on. Hard because for over 365 days hostages have been held in Gaza, never once being seen by any independent third party – incomprehensible on so many levels. I just returned from Israel where I experienced first hand what it felt like to hear sirens going off and having to move to a shelter until we could return to our apartments safely. 

While in Israel, I had the opportunity to visit hostage square, the hostage memorial at Dizengoff Circle and speak to many young Israelis and others who had completed their army service and are now serving in the reserves. So many of these experiences we as Jews living in the Diaspora could never imagine experiencing on a regular basis.  We scream at the top of lungs to “Bring Them Home” and pray for the safety of the brave IDF soldiers, and give thanks for the modern day marvels of the Iron Dome and David’s Sling which protect and save lives on a daily basis.  How has the past year changed me, this agency, and all of us, and how will we show up differently in the New Year? For me personally, I will continue to support Israel at every opportunity, and I will continue to visit and talk to Israeli’s to learn and hear their personal experiences. I will pray for the release of the hostages and the end to this war. I will do my part to fight anti-Semitism and to speak up and speak out when I see it happening. As an agency, we will continue to show up by providing the support to those struggling with their mental health, supporting them through our behavioral health programs and letting them know we are here, hineni, and we care. How will you be better? 

G’mar Chatimah Tova

Danielle N. Hartman

President & CEO 

Illumination 2024 is Here: Explore the Latest Stories from Rales JFS!

Hot off the press! The 2024 issue of Illumination Magazine has arrived, and it's filled with the latest stories, updates, and insights from Rales JFS. Whether you're interested in learning about our impactful programs or reading heartwarming stories of community resilience, this edition has something for everyone. Be sure to check it out online, or pick up a physical copy today at our Main Office, Cooperman Center, or Weisman Center. Happy reading!

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and Rales JFS is passionate about training our community partners.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, every year, 1 in 4 women experience verbal, physical, emotional, or sexual abuse from a dating partner. This evidence-based program helps teach the public to recognize the difference between caring, supportive relationships and controlling, manipulative, or abusive relationships. It is our goal in providing this training that young people will begin to learn the skills needed to create and foster positive relationships and provide awareness about domestic abuse.

If you or your organization is interested in trainings, or have a loved on in need of support, please contact Rales JFS at (561) 852-3333.

We invite you to wear PURPLE from October 8th to 11th to show your support for Domestic Violence Awareness Month as we stand together against abuse!

Substantial evidence shows that emotional, sexual and physical abuse happens to people of every economic class, every culture, every racial background, every level of education, and every religion. Rales JFS offers confidential support and resources to those in need. These programs and services have been created to provide support, resources, understanding and compassion to victims of all types of abuse.

Share your purple shirt photos on social media and help raise awareness!

Lifesaver: Claire's Journey of Survival and Hope

Claire and her children had experienced traumatic domestic violence at the hands of her husband. They were victims of physical, verbal, financial, technological and immigration abuse that led to Claire taking her children and their pets and going into hiding.

When she shares her story, she refers to Rales JFS as a lifesaver. Left penniless and almost homeless, Claire felt like she would drown in the enormity of improving the lives of her children and herself. She describes the staff who helped her navigate through all of the challenges she was facing as lifesavers. When she needed to provide nourishment for her and her children, the Jacobson Family Food Pantry was available to her. The financial assistance department provided help when she needed, as well as gift cards for her children to celebrate the holidays and enjoy some normalcy.

The support, compassion and guidance that she received has left her feeling stronger and hopeful for the future ahead. Claire hopes someday to be a lifesaver for someone else who needs to know help is available.

Are you or a loved one in need of domestic abuse education or support group? Contact Rales JFS at (561) 852 -3333 or info@ralesjfs.org.

Join the NEW Social Skills Group For Children Ages 11-13

Our Social Skills Group for ages 11-13 is starting on Sunday, October 13th from 11:45 AM to 1 PM! Help your child build confidence, make friends, and develop essential social skills in a supportive environment. We have a few spots left—sign up today with the Cooperman Center!

Contact Aliyah for information at (561) 852-5099 or AliyahL@RalesJFS.org.

Meet Anne Jacobson, the inspiring namesake of the Jacobson Family Food Pantry! Watch as Anne shares her powerful story and the heart behind supporting our community with essential meals. Together, we’re nourishing hope and helping those in need.

Join Us for a Budget-Friendly Holiday Gift-Buying Workshop – Learn How to Avoid Debt This Season!

Rales JFS, in partnership with iTHINK Financial Credit Union, will be running an informational workshop for families on a budget on how to get through the holiday gift-buying season without going into debt. This will be an in-person workshop facilitated by Joey Petruzzelli, senior community development manager with iTHINK Financial. 

RSVP by 10/24/2024 to Wendy Goodman at wendyg@ralesjfs.org.

Join the Rales JFS Family with Meals on Wheels:

Nutritious Meals & More Delivered to Your Door!

Have you heard about the Meals on Wheels Program?

Our Meals on Wheels (MOW) program offers nutritionally balanced, prepared meals for those who are unable to cook for themselves. But that’s not all—participants also become part of the Rales JFS family, gaining access to a wide range of programs and services designed to enhance their quality of life.

For more information, call Rales JFS at (561) 852-3333 or email info@ralesjfs.org.

Unlock Your Child's Potential:

Enjoy 10% Off Gifted Testing at Rales JFS!

Receive 10% off of Gifted Testing for Students at Rales JFS until October 31, 2024! Gifted testing helps identify and nurture exceptional talents in our young learners. Early identification can lead to tailored educational opportunities that boost academic and personal growth! Without testing, these gifted students might not receive the specialized support they need, potentially stunting their development.



Visit us our psychological testing page online for more information.

Contact Behavioral Health Services at (561) 852-333 or intake@ralesjfs.org for more information.

Myths and Facts About Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is often misunderstood, but we're here to set the record straight. From clarifying what bipolar disorder really is, to dispelling harmful myths, we've got the facts you need to know.

Read more about the realities of bipolar disorder and how it can be managed successfully.

Contact Behavioral Health Services at (561) 852-333 or intake@ralesjfs.org for support and resources.

The Rales JFS Holocaust Survivor Assistance Program helps provide for the needs of those who survived the brutality and persecution carried out by the Nazis and their collaborators during World War 2.

The program provides personalized case management and service coordination for vital services necessary to maintain maximum independence in a safe home environment. Rales JFS has also assists the Survivors in our community with Holocaust reparations and financial assistance.

For more information or to enroll in this program, call our Intake Department at (561) 852-3333.

CBS12 Features Jacobson Family Food Pantry Deliver 250+ High Holiday Meals with Heartfelt Cards,

Thanks to Our Amazing Volunteers!

On Sunday, September 22nd, the Jacobson Family Food Pantry delivered over 250 meals to families in South Palm Beach County in preparation for the High Holidays. Along with the meals, recipients received heartfelt holiday cards created by children in the community. A special thank you to CBS 12 News for covering this story and highlighting the importance of our mission.

With the help of dedicated volunteers, meals were distributed safely! Thank you to everyone who participated in this meaningful mitzvah.

For more volunteer opportunities, contact Rales JFS at (561) 852-3333 or visit online.

Thank You to Our Incredible Volunteers for Delivering High Holiday Meals and Supporting the Community!

Thank you to everyone who participated in this special mitzvah! On Sunday, September 22nd, volunteers helped the Jacobson Family Food Pantry prepare for the High Holidays by delivering Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur meals. We’re grateful for the community’s support in fighting food insecurity. Meals were picked up through a safe, drive-up line, with deliveries completed in under 2 hours. Students earned community service hours, and together, we made a meaningful impact!

If you or your family would like to volunteer at Rales JFS, please call (561) 852-3333 or visit us online.

Thank You, PJ Library, for Your Heartfelt Support at the Jacobson Family Food Pantry!

Thank you to PJ Library for volunteering at the Jacobson Family Food Pantry! Their help in packing bags, stocking shelves, and making beautiful High Holiday cards means so much to our clients in need.

The sweet donations will make the new year even sweeter!

If you or your family would like to volunteer at Rales JFS, please call (561) 852-3333 or visit us online.

Regina Packer Awarded

October Employee of the Month

Rales JFS is proud to announce and celebrate that Regina Packer has been named Employee of the Month for October 2024.

Regina has worked at the Weisman Center for the past 14 and a half years. Beginning as a dedicated volunteer, she has worked up into various positions within the center. Through Regina’s commitment and passion, she has played a vital role in creating an inviting and supportive environment where our seniors find joy, companionship, and a deeper connection.

Regina shares, "Building a love for the help & assistance that our seniors need and giving them a reason to come to our wonderful center & make friends and be a part of a greater cause has been incredibly rewarding. The friendships formed and the sense of community fostered at the Weisman Center are what keep our seniors coming back."

Thank you, Regina, for your unwavering dedication to the Weisman Center and for the positive influence you bring to the lives of our seniors every day!

To register please contact Jill Waldman at JillW@ralesjfs.org or (561) 852-5013.

Need Support? Rales JFS Is Always Here For You!

LGBTQ+ Senior Support at the Weisman Center

Check Out The Cooperman Center Therapeutic

Programs Calendar

Join Disability and Inclusion Support Groups

Sibshops: Brothers & Sisters of Individuals with Varying Needs and Abilities

Join Rales JFS Cancer Support Group

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.