Photo Above: Lina (right), Tenant Community Liaison, and Harriet, (left) tending the garden boxes at Dany Guincher’s community garden for residents. Nearly all the residents are involved in maintaining the garden. On top of growing fresh, healthy produce, the garden provides a therapeutic outlet and helps to build community.
Support for housing position means at-risk Jewish community members receive the help they need
Thanks to the support of two family foundations - the Ben and Esther Dayson Foundation and the Diamond Family Foundation - the JFS Tenant Community Liaison position launched last fall has received a commitment for ongoing funding.
This exciting position works closely with Tikva Housing to help vulnerable Jewish community members adjust to new housing as well as maintain their long-term tenancy. Lina Moskaleva, who occupies the role, works with over 65 clients.
“The most satisfying thing is that we solve problems,” says Lina. “We house people, arrange subsidies and connect them with the resources they need.”
Her days are never dull and she is always finding creative ways to support people. Being able to speak Russian is a particular asset to the community.
One client is a Russian speaking senior with a hearing impairment and other challenges. He desperately needed help in applying for a rental subsidy but communication was difficult. By slipping notes under his door, he and Lina were able to fill out his application together. When he learned it was successful he was so relieved to have an affordable and safe housing situation for years to come.
Lina provides information, referral and support as well as community activities such as holiday celebrations with clients who live in Tikva Housing buildings (Dany Guincher and Diamond Residences).
“I’m developing meaningful relationships and helping people, and for me that’s incredibly rewarding,” says Lina.
Special thanks to The Ben and Esther Dayson Foundation and the Diamond Foundation, who have generously agreed to provide grants to JFS so more people continue to get the help they need.