The holiday season is defined by generosity, and as it drew to a close, JFS Richmond remained at the center of that spirit, working tirelessly to ensure people at every stage of life felt supported and cared for through meaningful gifts shared across the community.

In the weeks leading up to the holidays, JFS staff and volunteers sorted, wrapped and distributed gifts to a wide range of people, including children, seniors, families receiving counseling services, home care clients and people resettling from Ukraine.

The effort spanned multiple programs and neighborhoods, reflecting the agency’s broad reach, committed community partnerships, and deep commitment to meeting both practical needs and emotional well-being.

One of the initiatives was the distribution of 46 bicycles to children and families in the low-income communities of Fairfield Court, Mosby Court, and Southwood Apartments. The bikes were generously donated by the Richmond Area Bicycling Association, a longtime community partner.

Beyond bicycles, JFS delivered 180 holiday gifts to clients across the community through its Lights of Love program, a partnership with the Weinstein  JCC. Volunteers and community members “took a flame,” committing to brighten someone’s holiday by picking up a gift.

These gifts included bedding, diapers, toys, winter jackets, sports equipment and gift cards, ensuring participants of all ages and needs received items that were both meaningful and practical.

This season of giving also included a deeply touching act of remembrance. Students from Rudlin Torah Academy donated gifts to JFS in honor of Skyler Legano (OBM), a former student who passed away from cancer at a young age. By choosing to honor his memory through acts of kindness, the students ensured his legacy continues to touch lives far beyond their school community. See a separate story in the Community Section

The success of this holiday effort would not have been possible without the dedication of JFS staff, volunteers, and community partners who organized, wrapped, and delivered gifts across Richmond. Their compassion and hard work helped transform the holidays into a time of warmth, joy, and connection for hundreds of individuals and families across the region.

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