For good. For all.

Friendly Connections

Could you or someone you know benefit from a friendly call? As we navigate this unprecedented time, Jewish Family Services (JFS) would like to offer the gift of connection to those in our community who may be especially challenged by the diminished contact while home-bound.  

How does the Friendly Connections program work?

Our Friendly Connection program is designed to put individuals in the Rochester area in touch with a volunteer caller for 10-15 minute check-ins via phone or video chat. Our volunteers aim to convey that someone cares, offer a check-in, and provide comfort and companionship. 

While this program is not able to offer home visits or shopping support, we may be able to help connect people to services that can help. Please reach out to our Helpline at (585) 461-0114 or call 2-1-1 if you know of a need beyond a friendly telephone/video chat check-in.

Contact

If you know of someone who would benefit from our Friendly Caller program, please email LHaddad@jfsrochester.org with the subject “Friendly Connection Recipient” and include the following information:

  • Name of person seeking connection 
  • Phone number 
  • Emergency contact name, phone number and email  
  • Topics to avoid 
  • Interests 
  • Preferences:  male or female 
  • Time of day 
  • Frequency of calls (1x/week, 2x/week)  

Volunteer

Volunteers are vital to the Friendly Connections program. Apply to become a Friendly Connections volunteer today!
Apply to be a volunteer

ACCESSIBILITY AND INCLUSION

Accessibility and Inclusion

Jewish Family Services (JFS) Special Needs Navigation Program provides information, referrals, resources, programming and and coordination for people with disabilities. JFS partners with local synagogues and Jewish communal agencies to promote inclusion and address the needs of Jewish people with disabilities and their families.

Friendly Connections

The Friendly Connections program is designed to provide isolated individuals (seniors and those with intellectual/developmental disabilities) in the Rochester area with a volunteer for 10-15 minute “check ins.”