Jewish Children’s Mental Health

My name is Emily and I am the Student Support Services Coordinator for a small Hebrew School. As a non-profit private school, we struggle with budget constraints, and I am hoping to help the school and Jewish community by raising money here. So many of our students are struggling with severe anxiety, depression and autism spectrum disorders, which have all been made worse by the stress and uncertainty of the pandemic. Their worry and pain are palpable, and I want to create a safe space where they can learn how regulate difficult emotions and manage stress. Learning these skills early in life contributes to the likelihood that they will grow into resilient adults who contribute of their community. Our policy is to accept every Jewish child into our school, regardless of their ability to pay. This policy, however, leaves our budget tight, especially for mental and emotional support resources. I would like to provide the children with programs and tools including biofeedback devices, weighted blankets, sensory stimulation toys and other supplies which could help them with anxiety, teach mindfulness, and aid in emotional awareness/control, but they are expensive. I have set a small starter goal for this fundraiser and would be grateful beyond words for any contributions. Thank you. 

Emily