Jewish Family Services

Jewish Family Service of the Desert’s (JFS) “Promoting and Nurturing Mental Health for Coachella Valley Children” initiative offers lifelong benefits to local youth through two important services: 1) low- to no-cost mental health counseling services, in-person or via telecare, in English or in Spanish, and 2) camp scholarships of up to $1,000 to attend day or overnight camp focusing on science, math, sports, leadership, religious, etc., providing access to experiences that enrich childrens’ lives. Combining mental health counseling services with camp scholarships can be particularly powerful, as it addresses our Coachella Valley children's emotional and practical needs. It ensures that our children have the support they need to thrive emotionally and experientially, setting them on a healthier and more fulfilling path as the leaders of the future.

Contact: Kraig Johnson, Executive Director

Email: kjohnson@jfsdesert.org

Jewish Family Service of the Desert (JFS) has provided an array of counseling and social services to Coachella Valley residents for more than 40 years. Funding from the Anderson Children’s Foundation will enable JFS to provide low- or no-cost outpatient mental health counseling for an estimated 250 children, with a focus on children of color and those living in poverty. JFS utilizes culturally- and age-appropriate cognitive behavioral therapy assessments and interventions to achieve positive mental health outcomes—and works in close collaboration with local hospitals, health departments, schools, and community-based organizations to effectively target those most in need. For those without insurance, services are provided on a sliding fee scale, and scholarships are available for those without insurance or notable income. No client is turned away for their inability to pay. JFS offers bilingual (English and Spanish) services, and therapy sessions are currently available in-person and via telecare.

JFS has integrated its counseling and case management programs, so client families can access case management services at no cost, including emergency financial assistance for necessities such as overdue rent and utilities, food and medications, assistance completing CalFresh, Section 8 voucher, or Medi-Cal applications, and linkages to other supportive services. Families referred into the case management program are assessed, offered referrals and assistance, and receive follow-up to ensure that financial stability is achieved. JFS is also committed to coordinating and unifying the efforts of multiple providers to increase service efficiencies and promote the well¬being of Coachella Valley children and families.

The Jewish Family Service of the Desert’s Intensive Outpatient Drug & Alcohol Program strives to help teenagers in the Coachella Valley recover from drug addiction. Certified drug and alcohol counselors meet with students for ten after-school sessions, with additional plans for recovery after they finish the program. Within small groups, teens learn about potential triggers, mental health, and consequences of drug use. Parents attend workshops and learn how to support their children. IOS representatives administer various tests, including the PHQ-9 depression scale and the Global Assessment of Funcitoning (GAF), to track students’ general ability to function and potential depression. Many teenagers leave the program with changed perspectives about drug abuse, and an instinct to think twice before using again.