Jewish Family Service unveiled these new mission and vision statements this year. They make clear both our purposeful commitment to be the comprehensive social services provider for the Jewish community as well as the importance of our meaningful presence within greater Cincinnati.

We, the staff and Board of Jewish Family Service, hold tight to this vision in our hearts. It motivates us each day as we encounter people in our own community - our neighbors, relatives, and friends - who have fallen on hard times or struggle with basic needs. Without Jewish Family Service they would have nowhere else to turn. Nowhere.

Jewish Family Service has always been the first responder for our community during times of crisis, and today's climate is no exception. In fact, in recent history we have never experienced needs so great nor has our assistance been so relevant.

The tables below show the hard numbers that depict the influence the recession had on our community in 2008. Unfortunately, this year's records reveal an even larger impact on the demands of our agency. Jewish Family Service Food Pantry has already served more individuals in the first 6 months of 2009 than in all of 2008.

This trend shows the importance of social services in our community.

As such, we are proud to represent an organization that aims to confront all challenges brought to the forefront by this economic crisis. This annual report highlights the ways our community and clientele rely on the services our agency provides.

Jewish Family Service is the essential foundation of a caring and vibrant community.

Thank you for allowing us the privilege to serve and to strengthen lives.