New Program Matches Volunteers with Those in Need

In her younger years, Irma worked in a school helping students grow into the fine individuals they are today. She enjoyed her life immensely, especially the field trips with the students and times with her family. Sadly, Irma’s daughter passed away and so did her husband. She has no family. Because of her age and some physical disabilities, she has become homebound. Although she lives on her own, she has difficulty cooking for herself. She relies on the kindness of others to go shopping for her or to take her to her doctor appointments, as she can no longer drive. Most of her days are spent alone.
Irma had been receiving monthly food relief packages from JRA for quite some time when she received notification about the JRAid program. Unsure as to what to expect, she opted to receive a friendly phone call and a ride to a medical appointment. She was overjoyed to have someone take the time to drive her to an appointment. And when her phone rang, she couldn’t help but talk for a long time. Soon, she had a couple volunteers calling her, as there is far to learn from a sharp woman with lots of wisdom and interesting stories to tell.
Because of the generosity of volunteers, Irma receives phone calls on a regular basis, is occasionally brought home cooked meals, and even receives birthday cards on her birthday. With her new lease on life, she has asked to go on a couple short outings and would greatly enjoy getting out more. She recently told me that before JRAid she didn’t think anybody cared about her and that she is truly amazed and touched that all these people actually care about her.
By just giving a small portion of you time, you can transform someone’s life, and perhaps in the process, even your own.
To find out how you can make difference in our community, visit www.jraid.org.
Melissa Samen
JRAid Program Director
JRA Group & B’nai Mitzvah Coordinator
Jewish Relief Agency • 116 Bala Avenue • Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
Phone: 610-660-0190, ext. 104 • Fax: 610-660-0191
JRA Warehouse: 10980 Dutton Road • Philadelphia, PA 19154 • 215-281-1101
melissa@jewishrelief.org
www.jewishrelief.org • www.jraid.org

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