Monthly Archives: April 2023

A Mother’s Dream Comes True: The Fresh Air Fund Sends Two Sisters to Camp

Janet, a mother of three beautiful daughters, wanted to give her children a break from the city and the chance to run and play freely. Her income was meager, but she remembered how much she loved going to camp as a child and wanted her daughters to experience the same thing. Two of her daughters were eligible for camp based on their ages and were eager to attend.

Thanks to the Fresh Air Fund, Niyea and Naziah were able to attend day camp for two weeks. They loved interacting with other campers and participating in various activities, including bike riding, swimming, and music. The bus ride to the camp site was also a highlight, as they got to see different farm animals and a pond along the way. They often included their younger sister in their stories about camp.

For Janet, it was a relief to see her daughters having fun and being able to enjoy nature without worrying about their surroundings. Thanks to the Fresh Air Fund, they had the chance to create lifetime memories.

You can help support children and families by contributing to the Greater Newark Holiday Fund today!

Original story taken from NJ.com

Providing Peace of Mind: How the MHANJ Helped a Family Cope with Mental Illness

Matthew, now in his mid-50s, was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia at 18 and currently lives with his elderly mother, Dorothy, in their family home. As Dorothy’s eyesight and mobility have diminished, Matthew helps with basic chores such as simple meals and washing dishes. However, Dorothy increasingly worried about Matthew’s ability to manage the house alone and afford its upkeep if she needed institutional care or passed away. With no other relatives nearby, there was no plan in place to provide for Matthew’s future.

The program director of the Intensive Family Support Services at the Mental Health Association in New Jersey offered solutions to Dorothy and Matthew, including setting up a special needs trust to protect Matthew’s SSI and Medicaid benefits and providing resources for elder care attorneys, case management, and alternate housing. Matthew’s case manager visits the home weekly.

Dorothy was also given resources to support her own well-being. Due to her age and poor eyesight, the worker made herself available to assist with applications and transportation to appointments.

With the program’s ongoing support, Dorothy has peace of mind, and Matthew has a plan in place for his future.

Thanks to generous donations to the Greater Newark Holiday Fund, the Intensive Family Support Services Program at the Mental Health Association in New Jersey can expand ongoing support, education, and advocacy for individuals and families coping with mental illness.

Original story taken from NJ.com

How the Jewish Family Service Helped A Mom of Three Reclaim Her Life

Meet F.T. – a mother of three who endured threats and abuse from her husband for over two decades.

She turned to the Jewish Family Service of MetroWest for help to leave her husband and attended weekly individual and group counseling. With their support, F.T. and her children were able to move to a safer location with better schools and obtain a final restraining order. The Safety Net Fund provided financial support for basic supplies for their new home. With continued emotional support, F.T. is now a strong parent, and her children are thriving.

Support others like F.T. by making a donation to the Greater Newark Holiday Fund!

Original story taken from NJ.com