At JF&CS, tikkun olam (Hebrew for “repair the world”) isn’t just a phrase — it’s action. With Purim approaching and its customary gifts of food, we’re highlighting one way our agency puts this value into practice: the Bridge to Stability program, home to the Kosher Food Pantry (KFP) and other essential services.
Understanding the Need
Today, financial stability is increasingly fragile for many Atlanta families. More than half of Americans report living paycheck to paycheck, meaning a single unexpected expense — a car repair, medical bill, or reduced work hours — can quickly become a crisis. Inflation continues to push up the cost of everyday essentials, while rent in Atlanta has outpaced wage growth. As a result, many households are forced to make impossible choices between housing, food, healthcare, and other basic needs. Hunger continues to be a growing concern, with one in five children and one in ten seniors experiencing food insecurity on a regular basis.
What is Bridge to Stability?
Bridge to Stability (formerly Emergency Financial Assistance) exists for these families, offering short-term support that helps individuals and families meet essential needs and regain stability before a temporary hardship becomes a long-term crisis. Through short-term financial support, referrals, and case management, the program assists clients with everything from housing and food to transportation, utilities, health needs, and temporary dependent care.
From July to December of 2025, Bridge to Stability has served nearly 200 households and families, both Jewish and not Jewish. We’ve facilitated 671 KFP visits and have distributed over 21,000 pounds of food. For families facing uncertainty, these services can be a lifeline: whether it’s keeping the lights on, putting groceries on the table, or covering a last-minute prescription, Bridge to Stability helps people get on their feet while maintaining their independence and dignity.
How You Can Help
This year, our greatest need is at the KFP, but it’s not what you might expect – while we always keep physical food available, gift cards to grocery stores like Kroger, Publix, or Wal-Mart are proving to be even more impactful.
Gift cards are not only practical, but they’re also personal. Gift cards give families the dignity of choosing the foods that suit their tastes and dietary needs, while also covering essentials beyond food, like medications, toiletries, and personal care items that SNAP benefits don’t cover. Your gift card donation is a simple, meaningful way to help families meet their unique needs while supporting their independence, dignity, and well-being.
Make a Difference Today
This Purim, you can turn tikkun olam into action by donating a gift card to the Kosher Food Pantry. Every gift counts! To donate, contact foodpantry@jfcsatl.org and help Atlanta families bridge the gap to stability.