Jewish Family Service June 2019 Newsletter

Six months after the shooting at Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh, violence shattered the sanctity of worship in our own community in April of 2019. Lori Gilbert Kaye was senselessly murdered during Shabbat service at Chabad of Poway. Our hearts broke. But Jewish Family Service of San Diego didn’t wait for a call – we showed up ready to help with the strength of our entire organization.

In the weeks after, we supported our community with comprehensive services. Twenty-two people were connected to trauma counselors.  Support groups and a Teen Talk offered a safe space to process complex emotions.  Parents at Chabad Hebrew School and Preschool learned how to talk about the incident with their kids.  Our staff worked with the FBI and District Attorney’s office to coordinate a culturally-appropriate response.  And we will continue to support our community in any way we can.

In the aftermath, San Diegans showed incredible strength.  A vigil hosted by the Anti-Defamation League brought together 4,000 people of all different ages, ethnicities, and religions for an evening of healing and hope.

“Fear and intimidation will not silence our voice,” said Michael Hopkins, CEO, Jewish Family Service. “Fear and intimidation will not stop us from living our values.  Fear and intimidation will not stop us from practicing our faith.”