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Jewish Health & Healing Center (JHHC)
The Jewish Health and Healing Center (JHHC) at JFS of Greenwich offers a range of educational, spiritual, and support services, including programs like Bikur Cholim, Family Life and Education, and Book Beat.
Weekly Services and Programs
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JHHC hosts weekly Shabbat services via Zoom, featuring a Torah study prepared by Rabbi MJ Newman, JFS’ Scholar in Residence. These services allow participants to share names of loved ones for healing prayers and observe family loss anniversaries. To join the weekly Zoom service, please email Jayme Schneider.
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For Jewish patients at Greenwich Hospital, we provide a weekly Shabbat telecast from the hospital’s chapel, enabling patients to participate in the service from their rooms. Led by Rabbi Newman and JHHC volunteers, this live-streamed service offers a comforting environment for those unable to attend synagogue.
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As Scholar in Residence, Rabbi MJ Newman develops new programs that explore Jewish values and teachings as they relate to spiritual health. Upcoming programs will be listed below.
Bikur Cholim Program
JFS' Bikur Cholim program is a volunteer initiative providing emotional and spiritual support to elderly or ill Jewish patients at Greenwich Hospital. Trained volunteers offer companionship, listen to patient stories, and provide prayers and comfort. Volunteers work closely with Rabbi Newman and the palliative care team to support patients during challenging times.
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All volunteers complete a 6-week training program, where they gain essential skills in compassionate patient care and learn how to create a safe, comforting environment while adhering to privacy and HIPAA requirements.
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Family Life and Education Programs
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JFS offers Family Life and Education programs that foster learning and connection within the Jewish community. These services engage Jewish seniors with their heritage through holiday programming and activities at local senior facilities, such as Rosh Hashanah, Chanukah, and Passover events at The Nathaniel Witherell, The Greens, and Greenwich Woods.
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In addition, JFS supports college scholarships for local Jewish students at Greenwich High School and, through the generosity of the UJA JCC, provides behavioral health management training for counselors at Camp Laurelwood.
Support for Israeli Refugees
Since October 7, 2023, when Israel was attacked by Hamas, JFS has provided urgent support to Israeli citizens seeking refuge in the U.S. This includes assistance with housing, food, clothing, legal services, employment, and behavioral health care.
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Education Programs
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JHHC develops educational programs in response to the community's needs and interests. In partnership with professionals and religious leaders, JFS offers a variety of educational opportunities at all stages of life, addressing topics that are meaningful to families and providing valuable physical and mental health resources. JFS staff are also available to speak at local synagogues. If your synagogue would like to host a JFS spokesperson, please contact Beth Nussbaum.​
Book Beat
Book Beat is a vibrant book club for readers passionate about Jewish-themed literature. Held every other month, the group gathers at a participant's home for lively discussions, facilitated by a local CT newspaper editor, in a relaxed and social setting.
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Click here to register for Book Beat.
If you or someone you know would like to participate, contact Jayme Schneider.