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Tampa Jewish Family Services' reach extends to all families

 
Published Feb. 22, 2017

Tampa Jewish Family Services offers everything from psychotherapy to educational testing at a reduced cost.

The organization's tagline is 'We are Here to Help.'

And the 'We' includes you.

Many people don't realize the services are open to the entire community, not just the Jewish community, said Elizabeth Vocke, communications representative.

With a staff including licensed psychologists and doctoral trainees, care professionals and a family support coordinator, TJFS strives to provide quality assistance to all Hillsborough County residents.

The organization operates offices in Citrus Park, at 13009 Community Campus Drive, and now South Tampa, where it recently opened at 522 Howard Ave.

"We have done so much in the northern part of Tampa, we wanted to offer those same services to people living in the south," said Michael Barnett, CEO and Executive Director. "Our Tampa location will be our wellness center, where we offer the majority of our counseling and educational services."

TJFS offers psychological services including counseling, psychological assessments and educational testing for youth, financial assistance programs, senior services and a community food bank.

Qualified families can apply for help with utility bills and for loan programs offering up to $2,000. Financial mentors are also available to help struggling families get back on track. Mentors meet one-on-one with participants to work on budget and savings.

TJFS food banks are open to all the first Thursday of each month in Citrus Park and the second Thursday of each month at satellite locations in Brandon. TJFS provides about 600 Hillsborough County families with food each month. Emergency grocery bags are available Monday through Friday by making an appointment.

Children and teens can undergo assessments, provided on a sliding scale, for behavioral concerns, ADHD/Hyperactivity disorder and Autism Spectrum disorders. Kindergarten readiness and gifted testing are also available at no charge to families that qualify, courtesy of a grant from Hillsborough County. TJFS psychologist and clinical director Nicole Agresto oversees counseling and testing programs.

Senior Care Management offers seniors and their families in-home and resident-facility assessments, as well as referrals for additional services.

"We offer help for the entire family," Barnett said.

For more information, visit tjfs.org. Complimentary phone consultations are available. Call (813) 960-1848.

Contact Sarah Whitman at sarahrothwhitman@tampabay.com.