Over 400 people met John at Seas the Dream, JFS' annual gala fundraiser, on Sunday May 1.  

John represents the many people JFS helps in the community.

John was born in a small African village in the Congo. His village was the location of systematic ethnic cleansing-- leaving John parentless.   

In July 2009, John arrived in America as a documented refugee. After a chance encounter with a minister from Framingham, John decided to make the adventurous move up north to Massachusetts from Arizona where he settled.

Once here he was put in touch with JFS. Through us, John was able to secure housing, warm winter clothing (he had never experienced cold weather or snow!), bedroom furniture donated through Circle Furniture and resume assistance and job coaching. He even received a bicycle, helmet and bike lock so he could get back and forth to job interviews.

It wasn't long before John was able to leave his temporary part-time jobs behind and gain employment in a position closer to his chosen field. John currently works full-time with benefits in housekeeping at MetroWest Medical Center. He has recently obtained his GED and is currently studying at Mass Bay Community College.

 "Let your life touch and be touched. JFS has touched my life and the lives of so many others with the work they do, work that represents high standards and good morals. Thank you JFS!"--John R., JFS Resettlement client.