JFS Statement in Response to Mass Shooting

JFS Statement in Response to Mass Shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, TX

In partnership with our national organization, The Network of Jewish Human Service Agencies, we stand with JFS San Antonio and each of its member agencies throughout Texas in the Austin, Dallas, Houston and Fort Worth regions as they begin the painful process of supporting communities in navigating the devastating losses and unspeakable grief that follow mass shootings. The tragic loss of 15 lives (14 students and one teacher) at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, TX once again speaks to a nation that finds itself caught in a cycle of shootings.

With the shooting in Buffalo, New York still very fresh in our minds and the funerals for those victims still underway, we must all find the courage needed to process the impact of these murderous rampages, so the lives of those lost shall not be in vain.

The JFS Community Support Program is available to anyone who would like to speak to a therapist to help process this overwhelming news or any other thoughts for which they made need help. The program includes three free 20-minute phone conversations with one of our mental health professionals. The goal of the program is to help people feel more grounded and emotionally secure. The therapist will also discuss strategies for improving their sense of well-being. Contact Tara Burns at (763) 300-3146 to access the program. JFS Community Chaplain Rabbi Lynn Liberman is also available. She is a trained trauma and disaster responder.  She can be reached via email (lliberman@jfssp.org) or cell (651) 434-4112. Please text her or leave a message if she does not answer.

May the memories of those whose lives were tragically cut short in Uvalde always be for a blessing and may we all find the strength needed to support each other as we come to terms with the impact of these devastating and painful losses.