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
Celebrating Partnership, Compassion & Community Impact | Honoring Rob Andrews
At the 2026 Seize the Dream celebration, JFS of Metrowest honored Rob Andrews with the Max Michelson Humanitarian Award for his compassion, leadership, and partnership in welcoming immigrant and refugee families. His extraordinary efforts have helped create a stronger, more compassionate community for families starting anew.
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.
Program News
Celebrating Partnership, Compassion & Community Impact | Honoring Rob Andrews
At the 2026 Seize the Dream celebration, JFS of Metrowest honored Rob Andrews with the Max Michelson Humanitarian Award for his compassion, leadership, and partnership in welcoming immigrant and refugee families. His extraordinary efforts have helped create a stronger, more compassionate community for families starting anew.
Celebrating Seize the Dream!
Thank you to the more than 400 people who came together in support of JFS and our mission to strengthen communities and inspire hope. We were honored to celebrate Joni and Reid Fishman, as well as Max...
JFS Seize the Dream- Honoring Rob Andrews and Joni and Reid Fishman- Invitation to Purchase Tickets
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE FULL INVITATION FLIPBOOK You are cordially invited to attend the 36th annual Seize the Dream Celebration to be held on Thursday, May 7, 2026, 6PM at the Westin Waltham Boston. Join us as we celebrate this year's honorees: Joni and Reid Fishman...