At CJP, we believe that every person deserves the opportunity to live with dignity, independence, and support. This Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance and Inclusion Month (JDAIM), we are proud to highlight the work of our partners who make this vision a reality. Every year, CJP provides grants and funding to our partners in this space, helping to ensure that they can continue to transform lives and foster inclusion and belonging for everyone.
Jewish Family & Children’s Service (JF&CS) is one such organization, providing vital services that promote resilience, well-being, and independence for people of all ages and abilities. In the last year, JF&CS helped more than 1,100 people with disabilities gain the skills and confidence to lead independent lives. Their comprehensive programs include resource navigation and advocacy, day and employment programs, life skills coaching, community living support, and inclusive Jewish holiday celebrations—ensuring that individuals and families can find the services that best meet their needs.
Anna is one of them. With support from JF&CS, she has learned to manage her daily life—budgeting, cooking, and navigating her community with confidence. Her journey is a testament to the power of personalized support and the belief that everyone deserves to thrive.
Watch the video above and keep reading to discover how JF&CS empowers individuals with disabilities through personalized support and community engagement.
Jewish Family & Children’s Service
Jewish Family & Children’s Service (JF&CS) stands as a cornerstone of support in Greater Boston’s disability community, offering comprehensive services that emphasize individuality, dignity, and meaningful engagement. JF&CS serves over 1,000 people with disabilities every year, reflecting their deep commitment to this vital community.
JF&CS’s individualized approach is evident across their services, which mainly serve adults 22 and older through various support models but also include programs for school-age children and siblings of those with disabilities.
JF&CS offers day programs in Waltham and Canton serving approximately 100 individuals and operating Monday through Friday. Rather than keeping participants in a single location, the programs emphasize community engagement through volunteer work and recreational activities. “No two participants have the same schedule,” shares Sara Freedman, MSW, senior director of CHAI disability services and agency initiatives, shares. “Logistically, it’s a challenge, but it really speaks to how individualized the program is based on participant interests.” Activities range from serving lunch at community schools and working with Meals on Wheels to adaptive sailing on the Charles River and regular workouts at the YMCA.
Additionally, JF&CS has developed innovative programs for those who might otherwise fall through the cracks of the system. Their life skills coaching and supports programs serve individuals who need less intensive support—typically under 10 hours per week—but still benefit from ongoing assistance. Led by social workers and clinical professionals, these programs help clients with everything from budgeting and meal preparation to interpersonal skills and employment support.
Their employment program has achieved remarkable success, with approximately 70% of clients staying in their jobs for over three years—far above typical retention rates. This success stems from their commitment to matching individuals not just with any job, but with meaningful employment that aligns with their interests and abilities.
For those who require more support, JF&CS operates six residences that provide 24/7 staffing, including the only kosher group homes in Greater Boston. “In those programs, we are responsible for every aspect of an individual’s life,” says Freedman. “And our residents have better social lives than I do! That’s just a big pride point in making sure they’re really integrated in the community and exploring their interests.”
At its core, JF&CS’s approach reflects a fundamental belief in the value and potential of every individual. “We’re really working with folks to hear what their interests are, what their skills are, and helping them craft a life that feels meaningful and joyful,” says Freedman.