*This post was updated on March 30, 2020*

“We have entered a time of uncertainty and fear, during which we will all have our moments of deep pain. But as a community we will strengthen one another, we will gather stones together, and we will build again that which might crumble.”

– JCJ Executive Director Joel Simonds

The weeks and months ahead will challenge everyone of us in one way or another. As we all adapt to this changing environment, JCJ will continue to take measures to ensure our justice work is still front and center in everything we do, focusing on the acute needs of underserved and underrepresented communities.

Here are some of the ways we are doing that:

• JCJ has partnered with the Healthy LA Coalition to provide resources on actions people can take to protect tenants and unhoused people in the interest of protecting all of us. This involves calling Los Angeles City Councilmembers and urging action to bring relief to our city’s most vulnerable residents and protect ALL Angelenos. Take action here.
• We are sharing Sen. Ben Allen’s list of resources, which includes information about free meals for LAUSD students, meals for seniors, Disability/Paid Family Leave Benefits and more.
• We are encouraging those who have the ability and/or time to volunteer and help their community during these difficult times. Click here to learn how you can deliver meals, donate to a shelter or food bank, volunteer at a food bank, support nonprofits and more.
• JCJ is also urging people to follow the guidelines set for their community, city and state. For example, as of Monday, March 16, six San Francisco counties have been ordered to “shelter in place.” (See Which States and Cities Have Told Residents to Stay at Home)
• Friend of JCJ Emily Kane Miller has been producing incredible content about how to remain charitable and giving during challenging times like these. Most recently, Emily wrote a piece on “Generosity in the Time of COVID.” Read and share here.
• Coronavirus Dos and Don’ts, updates on COVID-19 cases in California, plus info on services such as schools, employment, housing and more. Click here.
• The Red Cross now faces a severe blood shortage due to an unprecedented number of blood drive cancellations during this COVID- 19 outbreak. Wondering what you can do? Schedule a donation here.
• Amid pandemic, hospitals need medical safety gear. Here’s how you can help. [Los Angeles Times]
• Ways to help California’s vulnerable children during this crisis (courtesy of End Child Poverty CA)
• Our partners at Western Center have put together a comprehensive list for how we protect the vulnerable in our society during this crisis.
• If you’re lucky enough to be able to work from home and have your kids home with you all day, here are some strategies for managing both.
• An interactive map of the cities and states that have issued a ‘Stay at Home’ order.

PLUS

• On Monday, March 23, JCJ joined more than 650 Jewish organizations and clergy calling on the Administration and Congress to work together to provide federal nutrition assistance for food insecure Americans during this unprecedented time. Read that letter here.
• **RE-WATCH our March 20 Shabbat wind-down with JCJ Manager of Jewish Engagement and Advocacy Noah Diamondstein**
• JCJ seminary fellow Elias Chajet reminds us that while we cannot be together in person during this time, there are still ways we can help the less fortunate and fellow community members who are at risk. [Watch]

*We will continue to post major updates to this blog, so check back here periodically for more information.