Note for Media: To maintain safety and dignity, the JFS campus is closed to media during these food distributions. If you are interested in doing a story outside of distribution hours, please contact [email protected]. Thank you for understanding.

Media Statement Re: Federal Government Shutdown
From Jewish Family Service of San Diego

With more than 107 years of service to the San Diego community, Jewish Family Service of San Diego (JFS) has always stood ready to support our neighbors—especially during times of crisis like the current U.S. federal government shutdown.

“As a result of this latest government shutdown, many federal workers living in San Diego will face frozen or lost wages,” said JFS CEO Dana Toppel. “As we’ve done in the past, including during the 2019 shutdown, we are moving quickly to meet the needs of local federal government employees or contractors, and their families. They are our neighbors, and we understand how stressful and uncertain this time can feel. We are hoping to ease some of the mental and financial burden they may be experiencing by providing weekly nutrition assistance for as long as the shutdown lasts.”

Starting on October 8, in partnership with the San Diego Food Bank, JFS will begin hosting a weekly drive-thru food distribution at the Joan & Irwin Jacobs Campus in Kearny Mesa. Supplemental groceries—including non-perishables, pantry staples, and fresh produce—will be provided to furloughed government workers and their families. For more information on this temporary program visit www.jfssd.org/shutdownsupport.

This new distribution is in addition to our regular weekly and monthly food distributions. Details on those are available at www.jfssd.org/communitydistributions.

As always, we remain deeply committed to ensuring every person in our community has access to safe housing, nutritious food, and a strong network of support. As long as the shutdown continues, we will be here to help. Anyone in need of additional resources can call us at (858) 637-3210.