When a local Catholic church asked Jewish Family Service of Tidewater, “do you have people you want to help?” the question undoubtedly resulted in a community partnership full of good will and good cheer.
Such was the case for JFS and Catholic Church of St. Stephen in Chesapeake.
Dorothy Salomonsky, Personal Affairs Management (PAM) program director worked with Carol Ebert from St. Stephens to present 384 wrapped and donated items for clients, (necessities among them) at the annual JFS holiday party. The lunch took place at Outback Kemps River Crossing, was sponsored by Altmeyer Funeral Home, and hosted 100 JFS clients.
The JCC Knitters Club donated hats, scarves, and lap blankets as well. “The knitting club is in its seventh year,” says Jody Laibstain. “All the yarn is donated to the club. The knitters who come to chat and hand-knit items that bring comfort and warmth, consisting of scarves, lap blankets, hats and gloves.”
Each year, Ohef Sholom Temple’s Tzedakah Quilt Group makes and donates quilts to JFS to be given to clients. This year, the group produced 17 beautiful quilts, including three for babies, as well as three shawls.
For more information call Jody Laibstain 757-321-2222 or e-mail jlaibstain@jfshamptonroads.org.