2025 Winter Newsletter
Jewish Federation Announces Partnership with SCN to Enhance Security, Expands Dignity Grows Initiative at Annual Meeting
The Jewish Federation of Western Massachusetts held its 2024 annual meeting on December 19th at the Bombyx Center for Arts & Equity in Florence, MA. The event highlighted key accomplishments, honored community leaders, and introduced 2025 focus areas and programming. Among the major announcements were a new multiyear partnership with the Secure Community Network (SCN), the expansion of the Dignity Grows initiative, and the addition of the Greater Springfield Eruv Corp (GSEC) as a constituent agency partner.
In response to the alarming rise in antisemitism and violence targeting Jewish institutions, the Federation announced a multiyear partnership with SCN, the official homeland security and safety initiative of the organized Jewish community in North America. The Federation will invest $200,000 annually to bolster security measures across Western Massachusetts Jewish institutions.
The Federation also announced the expansion of its Dignity Grows initiative in 2025, aiming to serve even more women, girls, and individuals assigned female at birth by providing essential hygiene products. These products enable recipients to attend school, work, and community activities without disruption.
In 2024, Dignity Grows distributed 1,500 bags filled with personal hygiene products to partners such as the Amherst Survival Center, The Gray House, and The Brick House. In 2025, the Federation plans to distribute 2,000 bags and introduce an additional partner organization, to be revealed at a later date.
Lastly, Federation proudly welcomed the Greater Springfield Eruv Corp (GSEC) as its newest constituent agency partner. The GSEC will receive funding and support to maintain the eruv serving Springfield and Longmeadow.