Jewish Family Services

03/11/2026

Get ready to laugh.

The highlight of JFS Brunch Out is nationally recognized comedian , fresh off The Tonight Show. Known for her sharp, joyful comedy rooted in Jewish life, family, and the everyday moments we all recognize, Liz brings the perfect mix of wit and warmth to the stage.

Join us April 26 at Comedy @ the Carlson for brunch, mimosas, and a private performance you won’t want to miss.

Get your tickets:
https://jfsrochester.org/events/jfs-brunch-out/

Thank you to our Punchline Sponsor, the Konar Foundation.

03/11/2026

After nearly a decade of growth, Pencils & Paper is entering its next chapter.

JFS Rochester is proud to share that the program will transition to new leadership at Rochester Rehabilitation Center later this summer, positioning this vital resource to continue expanding its impact for teachers and students across Monroe County.

What began in 2016 serving 28 schools in the city has grown into a countywide effort supporting 119 schools across nine districts with free classroom supplies. Together with an extraordinary community of volunteers, donors, and partners, Pencils & Paper has helped ensure that tens of thousands of students have the tools they need to learn and succeed.

We’re excited to partner with Rochester Rehabilitation Center to carry this work forward and strengthen its future.

Read more in the full announcement:https://jfsrochester.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/JFS.RR_.P2-Press-Release-3.11.26.pdf

02/24/2026

Your phone was supposed to be a quick check. An hour later, you feel more anxious, more drained, and no more informed than when you started.

Doomscrolling is more than a habit. It can quietly increase stress, disrupt sleep, and make it harder to feel present and calm. The good news is that small, intentional changes can reset your relationship with your screen and support your mental health.

Our latest blog explores the signs you might need a reset and simple, compassionate ways to take one. Read now: https://jfsrochester.org/doomscroll-detox-protecting-your-inner-peace-in-a-digital-world/

02/20/2026

Announcing...JFS' first ever Brunch Out! 🎉

Mark your calendars for Sunday April 26 at 2pm for an exciting afternoon of brunch, laughs, and a cause that matters.

Tickets on sale NOW! Purchase yours here ➡️ https://jfsrochester.org/events/jfs-brunch-out/

02/16/2026

A restless night can make everything feel heavier. Small stresses grow, patience shrinks, and our emotions sit closer to the surface. Good sleep is not just about feeling rested. It is essential for your mental health.

Our latest blog looks at the deep connection between rest and well-being and what to do when sleep feels out of reach.

Read now: https://jfsrochester.org/sleep-on-it-how-rest-impacts-mental-health/

02/03/2026

Feeling the shift as temperatures seem to continue to just drop here in Rochester? Our latest blog explores how the colder months can affect your mood, energy, and overall well-being, and offers simple, compassionate tips to support your mental health this season. Read Weathering the Seasons: Tips for Good Mental Health During Fall and Winter for ideas to stay balanced, connected, and resilient.
https://jfsrochester.org/weathering-the-seasons-tips-for-good-mental-health-during-fall-and-winter/

01/30/2026

A day on the course. A lasting impact in our community.

The Brighton Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament is raising critical funds for the Brighton Food Cupboard which fights hunger for our neighbors in Brighton and beyond. Register your team, connect with local leaders, and help ensure families in our community have access to food and support.

Register here: https://www.brightonchamber.org/event-6507453/Registration

01/27/2026

12/30/2025

Feeling more tired, low, or unmotivated in winter? You’re not alone. Learn practical, evidence-based strategies for navigating seasonal mood changes at this free community workshop. Free & open to the public - register now! https://jfsrochester.org/events/finding-light-in-a-rochester-winter-understanding-combatting-sad/

12/18/2025

This past week, 322 Chanukah and Christmas holiday baskets filled with seasonal, nutritious food were delivered to individuals and families across our community.

Each basket represents generosity in action, made possible by our donors, volunteers, and partners who stepped up to ensure neighbors felt supported, remembered, and cared for during the holidays. Thanks to our incredible community, families and older adults facing food insecurity are able to celebrate the holidays a little more easily this year.

12/14/2025

Tonight, we light the first candle of Chanukah.

As Jews around the world gather to mark our holidays, we do so at a time when acts of hatred and violence remind us that celebrating openly can carry real weight. Still, we light the candle, because Chanukah teaches us that even a small light matters, especially in dark times. In moments like this, that simple act can feel like more than tradition. It can feel like pride. It can feel like courage. And for many, it can feel complicated.

If you’re feeling scared, sad, angry, or simply overwhelmed, know that you’re not alone. At JFS, we are here to support you—with care, connection, and community—today and throughout the holiday.

May this first light grow into eight nights of peace, safety, and strength. And may it continue to shine in the days beyond.

12/05/2025

Register now: https://jccrochester.org/adult-center/