JDC’s JOINTECH Initiative Allows Isolated Seniors to Grow Their Worlds
The past two years of living through the COVID-19 pandemic have been challenging for all of us, affecting our physical health, mental health, and our ability to connect with family and friends. Now imagine having those same challenges as an impoverished Jew in the former Soviet Union (FSU). Across the former Soviet Union, thousands of Jewish elderly live cut off from family and friends. Whether they are confined to their homes, beds, or living in isolated villages, they are all feeling the strain of reduced human contact.
Talla Kallujnaya is one of these seniors. As one of the first JDC beneficiaries in the FSU to receive a JOINTECH smartphone, she’s stayed connected to her Jewish community, even during the pandemic. “JOINTECH is a window to the world for me. Ever since my homecare worker taught me how to use my smartphone, I have participated in every possible program,” said Talla, a retired accountant living alone in Chişinău, Moldova. “I especially enjoy exercise classes and lectures about Jewish culture and traditions. They help me feel like my life is bigger than just my little apartment.”
JDC seized this complicated moment to introduce digital solutions and innovation to our client services, leveraging our extensive reach and infrastructure of care. JOINTECH is bringing digital solutions and connections to the former Soviet Union’s most isolated elderly.
JDC has always ensured that our clients had the basics they need to survive—food, medicine, and other essentials. But now we’re offering community connection to those who are homebound, bedridden, or living in very remote locations. Your gift gives them something more than just survival, and that should make us all proud.
Planning your legacy with JDC and all those we serve in mind means that your values will live on after your lifetime. We are happy to discuss the giving options that serve you best and answer your questions. Contact David Golaner at 917.391.3308 or davidgo@jdc.org to learn more.