By Ranit Braun

Jewish Family Services (JFS) Ottawa is proud to introduce a new chapter in its commitment to supporting our community: the Jewish Community Support Services Unit (JCSS). This newly formed unit brings together the longstanding strengths of the Tikvah Unit and the Thelma Steinman Unit, merging their work to better serve the broader Jewish community across all ages while continuing the essential, individualized support that has defined both programs for years.

By uniting these two pillars of service, JFS is strengthening its ability to respond to evolving community needs with greater flexibility, compassion, and impact. The JCSS will continue to offer meaningful programming and supports, ensuring that individuals and families remain at the centre of everything we do.

Alongside this exciting development, JFS is thrilled to announce a new initiative within our Tikvah programming: Miriam’s Well+, a free clothing and household goods program designed to meet the practical needs of our clients with dignity and care.

For over a decade, JFS has been the grateful recipient of generous fresh produce donations, which were distributed to clients at the end of each month. After many years of this invaluable support, we are no longer able to continue offering this service. We extend our deepest gratitude to the donors who made this program possible for so long. As the world changes and the cost of living rises for individuals and businesses alike, we recognize the challenges many are facing and remain profoundly thankful for the years of generosity that supported our community.

In response, the JCSS has thoughtfully pivoted to create Miriam’s Well+. This program allows clients to visit JFS and select gently used clothing and household items that meet their needs, an approach that promotes both accessibility and dignity.

You may have already noticed Miriam’s Well+ donation boxes at community locations such as the Soloway JCC, Congregation Kehillat Beth Israel, and, of course, at JFS offices. These drop-off points are essential in helping us collect high-quality, gently used items for redistribution to those who need them most.

The response so far has been overwhelming, and we are incredibly encouraged by the community’s support. To keep this momentum going, we are seeking additional drop-off locations. We invite Jewish organizations across Ottawa to consider hosting a Miriam’s Well+ donation box at their synagogue or place of business. JFS will provide the bin and arrange for weekly pick-ups, making participation simple and impactful.

To celebrate and support this initiative, JFS is partnering with the Jewish Federation of Ottawa’s PJ Library program to host a special community drop-off event called Celebrate Shavuot with Merry Dairy on May 19 from 3:30 pm to 5 pm in the Ottawa Jewish Community School parking lot. Thanks to PJ Library, the first 100 people will receive a free kosher ice cream cone! Donations to Miriam’s Well+ are encouraged. 

The event will also feature a PJ Library book exchange, jumbo lawn games, and plenty of opportunities to connect with friends and neighbours. It’s the perfect way to come together as a community, just in time for Shavuot, while supporting an initiative that ensures everyone has access to the essentials they need.

We look forward to seeing you there for a meaningful and joyful afternoon of giving, connection, and ice cream.
To learn more and register for the event, click here. 

-- Ranit Braun is the Manager of Jewish Community Support Services at JFS Ottawa.