JFS Syrian Refugee Humanitarian Project
In 2016, when over 5 million refugees had already fled Syria, JFS responded to the crisis by leading the JFS Syrian Refugee Humanitarian Project, a coalition of 17+ partner organizations from area synagogues, Islamic centers, academia, and the medical community. With the support of hundreds of volunteers and donors, JFS case managers resettled families from Syria in the Metrowest area and continues to help them overcome the challenges New Americans face when building a life in the United States.
These families are on the path to self-sufficiency and JFS will resolutely stand by these young victims of the Syrian war, every step of the way.
Follow the story of the JFS Syrian Refugee Humanitarian Project:
The Last Refugee, Through the closing door
by Jenna Russell, The Boston Globe
The Last Refugee, Threads of new life
by Jenna Russell, The Boston Globe
The Last Refugee, Letting go, taking hold
by Jenna Russell, The Boston Globe
- JFS and MFA Mobilize Boston to Provide Critical Supplies to Refugees in Syria
- The Big Picture, Yearning to breathe free Photography by Suzanne Kreiter/Globe Staff
- JFS Team Leaders to Receive 2017 Sharp Rescuer Prize for JFS Syrian Refugee Humanitarian Project
- JFS Syrian Refugee Humanitarian Project Featured in The Fenway News May 2017
- The Boston Globe Follows the Work of JFS of Metrowest in Resettling Refugee Families from Syria, Boston Globe March 23, 2017
- JFS Metrowest Leads the Way in Resettling Syrian Refugees, JewishBoston.com February 12, 2017
- Communal Joint Statement on Immigration and Refugees, JCRC January 2017
- Heartbreak and anger follow Trump’s immigration order, Boston Globe January 28, 2017
- Local temples, agencies, resettling Syrian refugees, Jewish Advocate December 9, 2016
Program Videos
Welcoming the Stranger: JFS and Community Partners Bring Hope to Refugees – Changing Lives Together
Learn how partnering with JFS can make a meaningful and powerful difference in the lives of people who need help the most.
JFS Addresses the Housing Crisis – Collaborative Housing Solutions that Build Thriving Communities
Click to learn how you can get involved.
Through the Power of Volunteerism, JFS is Changing the Lives of Refugees Seeking Safety in Our Community
Click to learn how you can get involved.
Program News
A Letter to Our Community: Sharing Critical Resources for Haitian Families
Haitian families across Massachusetts are facing serious uncertainty due to the possible revocation of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) on February 3. Many affected individuals have lived in the U.S. for 20+ years and now risk losing work and stability. State leaders and community partners have compiled critical guidance on workers’ rights, employer responsibilities, legal help, and limited emergency support. Sharing accurate information is urgent so families know their rights, options, and where to get help.
ICYMI- December 2025 eNewsletter- Sign Up Today!
CIick to read the December 2025 eNewsletter In Case You Missed It: Read the December 2025 JFS Report to the Community, featuring our Annual Report, messages from CEO Lino Covarrubias and Board President Ian Rubin, updates from our Volunteer Services team, program...
Reflecting on a Morning of Conversation, Community, and Compassion
In the spirit of welcoming the stranger and in alignment with JFS’ commitment to fostering an inclusive and compassionate community, we were honored to host author Eric Silberstein for a deeply meaningful Conversations & Coffee event centered on his acclaimed...