JFNA grants aid to Holocaust survivors and senior citizens

The Holocaust Care Center and the Institute on Aging and Trauma at the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) have announced the largest grant award to support over three dozen Jewish and non-Jewish agencies providing social services to older Holocaust survivors and their family caregivers.

These grants will aid local agencies, social services, nursing homes, Jewish organizations, and national communities. JFNA supports organizations serving both Jewish and non-Jewish seniors and their families.

In addition to offering grants, the JFNA also provides intensive education and training programs for all grant recipients. These programs enhance physical, cognitive, and mental health and assist older adults and their families in accessing essential services.

Since 2015, the JFNA has assisted more than 47,000 Holocaust survivors, 15,000 older adults who have experienced trauma, approximately 22,000 aging professionals, and over 8,300 caregivers of older loved ones.

"Caring for Holocaust survivors is a fundamental value and a profound commitment of our Jewish Federations," stated JFNA Board Chair Julie Platt.

"As we confront the psychological impact of recent events, such as the October 7 terrorist attacks, our efforts to support older adults who have experienced trauma have become even more critical."

"Holocaust survivors are our educators and our heroes," added Shelley Rood Wernick, granddaughter of Holocaust survivors and managing director of the Holocaust Survivors Center and the Institute on Aging and Trauma at the JFNA.

"Given the prevalence of trauma across many populations, there is a significant demand for our innovative services. Thanks to philanthropists and our government partners, we can deliver care that acknowledges the history of this trauma."