Your weekly JUF update

During these uncertain times, it's more important than ever to stick together as a community. With this weekly email, we hope to provide you with resources, moral support and other ways to adjust to this temporary “new normal.”  

We’ve created a JUF Coronavirus Community Resource Page where you’ll find links to more resources, info on JUF initiatives and ways to help or donate. And be sure to check JUF's Facebook page for daily updates.

Good news: more emergency relief for our community

JUF has launched the COVID-19 Initiative. Leveraging resources from the annual campaign and other resources, $26 million has been mobilized to help Chicagoans of all faiths through this crisis. Learn more about this major initiative that includes emergency food and financial assistance, medical care, PPE supplies, counseling support and much more.

Mrs. Maisel’s Alex Borstein is having the most Jewish quarantine ever

The Emmy-winning actress has been housebound with her family in Barcelona—and getting nostalgic on Instagram about Jewish rituals from her childhood in Deerfield. From baking challah and re-using plastic wrap, to kvetching with her parents on Facetime— she’s worth the Follow.

Masks: the must-have accessory

Here’s some useful info from the CDC on mask do’s and don’ts, including simple sew and no-sew instructions for making your own. What fabric to use? Researchers at the University of Illinois found that masks made from cotton t-shirts can actually be effective—and they even have higher breathability than some medical-grade masks. And while you’re at it, check out this hilarious anthem of our times: “Maskmaker, Maskmaker”, sung by a veteran of two productions of Fiddler on the Roof.

Kvelling alert: watch this Dad deliver the new baby news

This local Jewish couple borrowed a page from a movie to announce the birth of their little one during COVID-19 hospital restrictions—much to the delight of aunts, uncles and both sets of first-time grandparents. Mazel tov, Wolfe family!

Quarantine upkeep: head to toe tips

After weeks in isolation, it’s a good time to step back and pay attention to your mental and physical needs. Everything from reducing anxiety to dealing with those gray roots—here’s some great advice for living through lockdown.

A message of reflection from Rabbi Ilana G. Baden

Judaism has always valued “Plan B.” This Friday marks Pesach Sheini: A Second Passover. This day was established by Torah for those who legitimately could not perform the Passover rituals at the appointed time. 

I love that our tradition recognizes the fact that as much as we plan, life is unpredictable. It is not only acceptable to pivot and adapt, it is sacred to do so. 

We are living in a world that has been turned inside out. Life is not what it has been or should be. Nonetheless, we are reminded by our tradition to take a breath, figure out Plan B, and do our best. 

Rabbi Ilana G. Baden, Temple Chai Synagogue