CAMP SIMCHA
Camp Simcha has been as present as ever for families with seriously ill children during Covid-19, despite an income loss this year of £400,000 due to cancelled challenges and events.
Neville Goldschneider, the charity’s chief executive, explains: “Our team has worked quickly and creatively to adapt our practical and therapeutic services to support our existing families, as well as all the new ones who have received diagnoses during lockdown and beyond.
“In many cases families have needed us more than ever; our family liaison officers have continued to be there 24/7, offering concentrated emotional support to our families, while working with our services team to provide support in the form of safe respite care and hospital transports; kosher crisis meals, which have seen a big increase in need; virtual counselling, tutoring and therapeutic arts at home sessions; as well as online coffee mornings and parent support groups.”
The charity’s new parent portal on the website has kept families entertained with magic shows, exercise workouts, story time and more, as have a steady stream of activities being sent in to families — from baking and gardening kits to books, games and picnic boxes.
“Meanwhile, we are still finding ways to deliver Camp Simcha’s special brand of fun and attention which is so impactful, especially in such isolating times,” says Goldschneider. “Virtual events such as bake-offs, treasure hunts and talent competitions and more recently visits from the magical Camp Simcha float have brought some light in very dark times.”
campsimcha.org.uk/donate Registered charity 1180646
JEWISH BEREAVEMENT COUNSELLING SERVICE
“I did not know you were out there, until I needed you.”
As with the wider community, the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic has created extremely painful experiences andhardshipfortheJewishcommunity.
During these unprecedented times, when there is an enormous need for support, the Jewish Bereavement Counselling Service is available, and able to deliver one-to-one counselling and group support, via telephone, Zoom, Skype, WhatsApp and Facetime.
Individual counselling and group support are provided by professionally trained counsellors from JBCS, who offer guidance and understanding.
“Please call us,” says JBCS. “We are here for you.”
enquiries@jbcs.org.uk 020 8951 3881 jbcs.org.uk Registered charity 1047473