Jewish Family Services (JFS) received a $25,000 grant from the Staenberg Family Foundation. The organization will use the funds to support more than 150 Holocaust survivors and ensure they receive the assistance and support needed to stay healthy; safely age in place with dignity; and remain connected to their communities.

The Staenberg grant goes toward the partial funding of a new position. Case Manager Robyn Hutchins was hired to assist local Holocaust survivors with applications for Claims Conference and the Blue Card survivor benefits.  Founded in 2005, the Staenberg Family Foundation seeks to ensure that the Jewish community, as well as the greater St. Louis region, flourishes.

JFS focuses on supporting seniors in the Jewish community through a wide range of programs and services, including helping Holocaust survivors access benefits. The Claims Conference supplies funds for in-home support services for survivors. The Blue Card offers direct financial assistance and support to survivors with that pay for minor medical services such as hearing aids and dental work.

“The Staenberg Family Foundation’s support enables JFS to build relationships with more than 150 survivors in their ongoing quest to access designated funds and services,” JFS Chief Executive Officer Miriam Seidenfeld stated in a news release.  “This very generous grant ensures that Holocaust survivors will receive the benefits they need and deserve to improve their quality of life, and we are truly grateful to the foundation for its ongoing aid.”