There is nothing quite like the winter holidays to bring out the kid in everyone. From holiday cards to gift giving, the holiday season is a special time of the year. But for families in need, the holidays are a stark reminder of the challenges their family faces. This motivated a group of JTConnect teens at Farmington Valley Jewish Congregation to make a difference this holiday season.
The teens partnered with Jewish Family Services of Greater Hartford (JFS) to ensure that the clients they serve would all have a holiday gift to share with their families. After collecting demographic data on the kids who would be receiving presents, the group got to work picking out age-appropriate gifts for the kids and adding them to an Amazon wish list. The teens then solicited donations and had families pick out gifts from their registry that could be sponsored and mailed directly to them. More than 50 gifts were collected and wrapped by the JTConnect teens.
“Our first time collaborating with JTConnect for our Christmas gift drive was a big success,” shared Miriam Brander, Chief Operating Officer at JFS. “The teens took ownership and made thoughtful decisions for families we serve. Those thoughtful decisions will turn into happier holidays for many families in our community.”
JFS provides counseling, education and community support to help people of all religions advance along the path toward emotional well-being, self-reliance, more positive relationships, and a renewed sense of possibility.
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