Jewish Family Service of Metropolitan Detroit

Our Mission Inspired by the wisdom and values of Jewish tradition, we strengthen lives through compassionate service. Our History Jewish Family Service of Metropolitan Detroit (JFS) came into being as two local relief organizations -- the Hebrew Ladies Sewing Circle and the Self Help Circle -- joined in a commitment to meet the needs of the local Jewish community. JFS incorporated in 1928, with the specific mission of “Finding homes for orphan children and supplying homemakers for families with an ill or absent mother.” Before World War II, JFS helped Jewish families new to the country acculturate to life in Detroit and provided assistance to ensure their safety and well-being. After the Holocaust, JFS’ work changed dramatically, as the agency worked tirelessly to resettle and serve the material and psychological needs of Holocaust Survivors. In subsequent years, JFS joined with local and national partners to resettle thousands of Jewish Refugees from the Former Soviet Union. Over the course of 86 years, JFS has evolved into a comprehensive social service provider, helping individuals and families within the Jewish and broader communities. Most recently, JFS has provided a critical lifeline to Metro Detroit families and individuals affected by the recession, underscoring the importance of the agency's present and future in the community. Our Services JFS currently operates 30 separate programs with a combined budget of more than $10 million, carried out by a staff of more than 100. These programs serve thousands in our community each year, with services uniquely tailored to individuals’ and families’ specific needs. The agency's programming centers on three core areas: safety net services for individuals and families, counseling services, and services for older adults.