Comfort, Compassion, and Resources Go a Long Way

What began with a phone call for help completing paperwork ended with one Boulder Holocaust survivor receiving so much more than that type of assistance from Jewish Family Service of Colorado.

It’s easy to become overwhelmed when faced with a daunting task. Rebecca (whose name was changed to protect her privacy), a Russian Jewish older adult, contacted the Boulder JCC for help understanding paperwork she received from the Claims Conference so she could collect payments for Holocaust survivors. Rebecca had no connections to the Jewish community and struggled where to turn for help. The JCC staff member Rebecca spoke to forwarded her information to the JFS Boulder team, which is how Rebecca found the right source of support for her beyond completing paperwork.

After speaking with Rebecca, Jennifer Banyan, Director of JFS Boulder, realized a home visit would be beneficial to complete and submit the Claims Conference paperwork. During their time together, Jennifer learned Rebecca’s income was extremely low. Jennifer realized she qualified for programs that would save her nearly 20 percent of her annual income—approximately $10,000 a year through the Supplemental Security Income program.

“I met with Rebecca frequently over the course of three weeks to tease out eligibility for programs and other resources that could improve her quality of life,” said Jennifer. “She will receive additional food assistance, free internet and phone service, computer assistance, and ongoing case management with our JFS Holocaust Survivors program, ensuring that her basic needs are met and that she is connected with our agency and the greater community.”

Working together for the benefit of those who need us most is what JFS does every day.

Learn more about how JFS Boulder can support you or your family.