Frequently Asked Questions

Aren’t JSS and MJCC really the same organization?

No, they are not. Since 1978, Jewish Social Services of Madison, Inc., has operated as a wholly autonomous agency with our own mission, directors, budget, employees and officers.

JSS is a participating agency of the United Way and is a member of a number of local, state and federal associations including the Association of Jewish Family and Children’s Agencies.

I already gave to MJCC. Doesn’t that gift also help JSS?

Yes. MJCC has traditionally provided much-needed support, both in the form of administrative assistance and grants. However, less than 15% of the MJCC budget is given to us and 76% of our support comes from other sources.

Why do JSS and MJCC have the same executive director?

MJCC is very generous to us and it provides part of our annual support. Sharing administrative personnel and providing space for our offices are some of the ways in which MJCC has decided to support us.

What does JSS do to help seniors and their families?

We are one of the premier agencies providing senior services. We assess needs and plan care for frail elderly, provide protective and financial management services, and do outreach to those in senior living facilities. For family members who live in other communities we offer distance care planning. We run the Lechayim Lunchtime Plus program – the largest weekly nutrition program in Dane County – as well as Shabbat services, holiday programs and events in senior residences.

What does JSS do to help refugees and immigrants?

We help working-age refugees find housing, jobs, healthcare, schooling, language classes and otherwise move them to self-sufficiency. So far, we have a 100% success rate. On an ongoing basis we assist seniors and other émigrés (both refugees and immigrants) with immigration matters, citizenship preparation, health and mental health concerns and more.

What does JSS do to help individuals and families in crisis?

Every day people come to us with their stories – mental illness, domestic violence, drug and alcohol difficulties, infertility, impending divorce, unemployment, failing health and disability. No one should have to cope with problems like these alone. We respond with high levels of attention and professionalism, helping to sort things out, devise a plan, find and coordinate resources and offer supportive counseling.

What does JSS do to help those who are in financial need?

We offer our own short-term emergency grants and also facilitate access to such programs as subsidized housing, food stamps, energy assistance and more. For individuals with poor credit and rental histories, we sometimes manage their finances and debt so that they qualify for rental housing and can maintain their utilities.

Because we believe that no one should be denied help due to financial need, most of our agency services are available without cost.

How many people does JSS serve each year?

For the last several years, our client base has been steady at 800-900 individuals annually. We speak with everyone who contacts us directly or is referred by another agency. We accept as many people as we can, avoid waiting lists and attempt to guide people to other resources if we cannot help ourselves. We do all of this with a very small staff.

Where does JSS’ financial support come from?

This year, 76% came from sources other than MJCC. 49% comes from gifts from individuals like you, 17% comes from United Way, and 10% came from grants from governmental agencies, foundations and investment income.

If you are asking for additional support, why don’t you charge fees for your services?

JSS prides itself in guaranteeing access to all, regardless of financial means. We insure that we can serve the “reluctant client” by removing fees as a barrier. Those who are able are invited to make donations to the agency, and many do each year.