ABOUTSERVICESCONTACTEVENTS EVENTS AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION OCTOBER 2025 SAVE THE DATE! Saturday, January 10, 2026 7 PM Washtenaw Community College Details and tickets coming soon! JFS is proud to be a graduate and certification-holding member of the Food is Medicine Coalition (FIMC)—a national movement highlighting the powerful role food plays in health and healing. This week, USA Today released a special section, “A Nutrition-Focused Movement Gains Momentum,” showcasing the importance of rethinking meals as medicine and elevating the work of FIMC agencies nationwide. At JFS, this vision is alive through Nourish, and the JFS Shalom Kitchen, which has partnered with Trinity Health over the past year on a pilot project for high-risk pregnant women in our community. Working with the JFS culinary team, a registered dietitian, and a physician, participants receive nourishing meals designed to address diet-related health concerns and support successful pregnancies. Early results show improvements in maternal health outcomes, greater food security, and reduced stress for families. In addition, the JFS Nourish Pantry ensures whole families benefit from access to fresh groceries delivered directly to their homes. By pairing medically tailored meals with consistent access to healthy foods, JFS is advancing the Food is Medicine movement and helping local families thrive. As Food is Medicine gains national momentum, JFS is honored to stand alongside coalition partners in redefining the role of nutrition in healthcare. PINS FOR A CAUSE JFS is excited to introduce Pins for a Cause — a simple, powerful way to stand with refugees in our community. Find these pins at Van Boven Clothing, an upscale men’s boutique in downtown Ann Arbor, Brewed Awakenings Cafe, a family owned gem on US12 and State St., and Bivuoac, a downtown Ann Arbor staple. More locations coming soon! Choose from 4 inspiring designs: ✔️ Support Refugees. Stand For Humanity. ✔️ No One Leaves Home Without a Reason. ✔️ American as apple pie... And hummus, And borscht, And pho. ✔️ Proud Ingredient in America’s Melting Pot. Make a donation of any size (even $1!) and pick your pin. Every dollar helps JFS provide critical resources to newcomers rebuilding their lives. The Power of Connection: How Healthy Relationships Support Mental Health  Human connection is essential to our well-being. Whether it’s family, friends, or members of your community, healthy relationships can be one of the most powerful protectors of mental health. They offer belonging, comfort, and perspective—reminding us that we’re not alone, even when life feels difficult.    Why Relationships Matter for Mental Health  Strong, supportive relationships can:  -Reduce stress and anxiety by providing emotional support and stability  -Increase happiness through shared experiences and laughter  -Boost self-esteem by helping us feel valued and understood  -Encourage healthy habits through accountability and motivation  -Provide a safety net during times of crisis or change  Simply put, people who feel connected to others tend to have lower rates of depression and anxiety and greater overall life satisfaction.    Building and Maintaining Healthy Relationships  Healthy relationships don’t just happen—they’re nurtured over time through communication, empathy, and mutual care. Here are a few ways to strengthen your connections:  Be Present  Listen actively when others speak. Sometimes, the most meaningful gift you can offer is your full attention.  Communicate Openly  Honest, respectful communication builds trust. Share how you feel, and invite others to do the same.  Set Boundaries  Healthy relationships respect limits. It’s okay to say no, ask for space, or prioritize self-care when needed.  Show Appreciation  Express gratitude for the people in your life—whether through kind words, acts of service, or simply spending quality time together.  Stay Connected  Relationships thrive on consistency. Reach out, check in, and make time for the people who matter to you. Even small gestures—like a quick text or coffee date—can strengthen bonds.    When Relationships Feel Difficult  No relationship is perfect, and even strong ones can face challenges. Misunderstandings, life transitions, and emotional strain can all take a toll. If you’re struggling to maintain connections or feeling isolated, reaching out for support can help you rebuild trust and communication—starting with yourself.    Therapy can be a valuable resource in understanding your relationship patterns, improving communication skills, and building healthier connections.    At THRIVE Counseling, we offer compassionate, confidential care for individuals, couples, and families navigating life’s complexities. Healthy relationships start with healthy individuals—and support is available to help you grow both.    Connection Heals  Relationships remind us of our shared humanity. Whether you’re deepening existing bonds or reaching out to form new ones, every connection is a step toward greater mental and emotional well-being.    DELIVERY DRIVERS NEEDED! Are you looking for a meaningful way to give back to your community? The JFS Nourish Food Pantry & Kitchen is seeking compassionate, reliable volunteers to help us prepare nutritious meals for individuals and families in need.   Volunteering just a few hours of your time each week can make a big difference in someone’s day.   We are still in need of more drivers! You can choose to sign up for a specific shift, regular shifts, and/or become a member of our new “On Call Drivers” list who will receive an email on Fridays when there are not enough volunteer drivers the following week.   Your time helps us bring comfort, hope, and dignity to those who need it most. SIGN-UP NOW  CLICK HERE TO REGISTER VIRTUAL SUPPORT GROUPS CAREGIVER CONVERSATIONS Join us for connection, sharing and ideas around caregiver issues as we navigate our lives during challenging times. The group will include educational content, is facilitated by a licensed JFS Social Worker, and is open to anyone who cares for someone aged 60+. REGISTER SPOUSAL CAREGIVER SUPPORT Join us for connection with others in a similar situation to your own, sharing ideas and experiences around caregiver issues that arise while caring for a spouse or significant other. The group will include educational content, is facilitated by a licensed JFS Social Worker, and is open to anyone who cares for their spouse or significant other. REGISTER GRIEF SUPPORT Join us for connection with others navigating the challenges of experiencing  grief. The group will include educational content, is facilitated by a licensed JFS Social Worker, and is open to all who have lost a loved one REGISTER WISE SENIOR CENTER AT THE J WISE at the J is a congregate lunch meal program that takes place at the JCC on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. The event is organized by JFS of Washtenaw County. All are welcome! REGISTER HERE NEW DATE AND TIME FOR MISSION TOURS AT JFS Last Wednesday of the month at 12:00 p.m. One Hour to See, Learn, and Make an Impact! Experience the heart of our community at Jewish Family Services (JFS)! We're thrilled to showcase the incredible range of services we provide to support and uplift our neighbors. From essential basic needs like food and transportation for older adults to our cutting-edge out-patient behavioral health clinic for individuals and families, JFS is here to make a difference. Discover how you can become an integral part of our mission.  REGISTER NOW  COMMUNITY CORNER CLICK HERE TO REGISTER [email protected]734.769.0209www.jfsannarbor.org