Press ReleasesSAN DIEGO (Sept. 16, 2025) – Jewish Family Service of San Diego (JFS) is assisting families with loved ones who were victims of violent crime or domestic violence as part of the new Dr. Ben Harouni’s Hope and Healing Fund. The fund, created in honor of Dr. Ben Harouni, a young dentist murdered in his El Cajon office in February 2024, is powered by a nonprofit his friends and family started shortly after his death called Hearts Over Hate.
“Ben’s death rocked the very foundation of our family. For us, grief counseling was vital as we worked to come to terms with our unimaginable loss. We know that many do not have access to that level of support,” said Hilda Harouni, Ben Harouni’s mother. “Other families affected by tragedy may not have the financial resources to rebuild their lives, which adds more hardship to an already devastating situation. Our goal with Dr. Ben Harouni’s Hope and Healing Fund is to enable families to heal with dignity and hope for the future. The fund helps our family honor Ben, who impacted so many with his generosity and passion to provide quality dental care to underprivileged communities.”
Immediate family members of victims who experienced violent crime, including parents, spouses and children, living in San Diego, Riverside and Orange Counties are eligible for the new JFS program. Each family selected will receive financial aid to help with counseling and housing costs as they navigate their mourning process and service needs. Each case is assessed on an individual basis to determine the needs of the family. In some instances, families have lost a primary income earner and need more robust wraparound services. In these cases, families are paired with a JFS resource navigator who connects them with counseling and grief management resources and temporary housing and nutritional assistance, as needed. Similar services are also available to families of domestic violence victims.
“This program is designed to provide light for people facing some of the darkest moments of their life,” said JFS CEO Dana Toppel. “Ben lived the Jewish values of equity, inclusion and tikkun olam (repair the world) – values that guide our agency’s work. JFS is honored to continue Ben’s legacy through the Hope and Healing Fund.”
JFS is currently receiving most referrals to this program from the City of San Diego District Attorney’s Office, but those interested in learning more or how to apply can email [email protected]. Services are open to families of all faiths and backgrounds.
About Jewish Family Service of San Diego – Moving Forward Together
Founded in 1918, Jewish Family Service (JFS) is one of San Diego’s most impactful nonprofit agencies – providing resources and support to tens of thousands of people every year. Through integrated services, the organization empowers people of all ages, faiths, and backgrounds to overcome challenges, set goals, and build more stable, secure, and connected lives. JFS is committed to helping individuals and families move forward, while developing innovative strategies to break cycles of poverty and strengthen our San Diego community.
To get help, volunteer or support JFS, visit jfssd.org or call 858-637-3000.
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