JFCS Rapid Response Protects Unaccompanied Children
Over Labor Day weekend, the JFCS Immigration Legal Services team and ACLU Pennsylvania worked tirelessly to protect Guatemalan children in the region from immediate deportation. A national judicial ruling now bars the deportation of these unaccompanied minors from Guatemala for 14 days. These children are survivors of unimaginable trauma and currently engaged in the immigration legal process. They are being targeted for removal without court orders, which violates U.S. child protection laws.
The fight is far from over. JFCS will continue to stand up for all unaccompanied children from any country of origin and advocate for their safety, dignity, and due process.
Join us in protecting these youth.
Contact your U.S. Senators and Congressional Representatives: congress.gov/contact-us
Donate to JFCS: jfcspgh.org/donate
Donate to ACLU Pennsylvania: aclupa.org/join-donate-or-both
Our Community Needs You. Stand With Your Neighbors Today!
For 25 years, The JFCS Squirrel Hill Food Pantry has been steadfast in nourishing our community.
We are facing a critical moment. This month, over 140,000 Pennsylvanians and nearly 10,000 people in the Pittsburgh area will lose their SNAP benefits as they are not able to meet stricter work requirements. In addition, immigrants and refugees who do not have a green card will lose SNAP benefits with very few exceptions on October 1, 2025.
The number of people relying on the JFCS Squirrel Hill Food Pantry is increasing each month and we expect that number to continue to rise with these new changes.
Your gift today provides stability, dignity, and nutrition one meal at a time. Every single dollar allows us to provide three healthy meals to your neighbors in need.
Together, we can continue to keep our community nourished and strong.
In These Uncertain Times Meditation and Mindfulness Are Powerful Tools
Meditation and mindfulness offer powerful tools for calming the nervous system and managing stress, anxiety, and trauma. Whether you’re seeking better sleep, improved focus, or to build self-awareness, meditation can be tailored to fit your needs—even if you think you’re “not the meditation type.” As Angelica Joy Miskanin, a psychotherapist at JFCS Counseling Services, reminds us, “Your whole job right now is just to notice your experience.” From guided sessions to walking meditation and loving-kindness practices, there are many accessible ways to begin.
Meditation is a gentle and powerful way to support your healing and growth.
Happy Rosh Hashanah From Your Friends at Jewish Family & Community Services!
As the High Holidays approach, we prepare to welcome Rosh Hashanah. The past year has held its share of challenges, but it has also brought moments of joy, growth, and connection. As we reflect on these experiences, let’s carry the lessons forward, strengthening our bonds and supporting one another in the year to come. We wish you a happy, healthy & sweet new year!
Upcoming Events
Welcoming Week takes place September 12-21. It is a chance for neighbors of all backgrounds to build strong connections and affirm the importance of welcoming and inclusive places in achieving collective prosperity.
Celebrate cultures and build communities by joining us for one or all of these events!
Celebrate Afghanistan Through Music and Dance on September 12 from 3 – 5 pm at the JCC, Levinson Hall. RSVP required by clicking here.
Celebrate Haiti through learning Haitian Creole on September 19 from 3 – 5 pm at the JFCS Office. RSVP required by clicking here.
Celebrate Turkey though coffee and conversation on September 26 from 3 – 5 pm at the JFCS office. RSVP required by clicking here.
Are you a job seeker searching for employment opportunities and community support?
Join us for the Welcome & Work Job Fair on September 12 from 11 am – 2 pm at Allegheny County Human Services Office. At the job fair you’ll find a welcoming space to connect with inclusive employers and local organizations ready to support your career journey. Bring you resume and be ready to make connections!
What You’ll Find:
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- Employers hiring across a variety of industries
- Community resources
- On-site Interpreters to assist in multiple languages
This job fair is free and open to the public.