FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 

Contact: Haley Cook 
Gulf Coast JFCS Marketing and Communications Manager
media@gcjfcs.org

Just in time for Chanukah, three youth make a big impact. 

Clearwater, FL — Gulf Coast JFCS welcomed three local youth whose B’nai Mitzvah service projects are uplifting lives and making a difference for children and families served by Gulf Coast JFCS through the collection of books, games, and toys. Each inspired by their passions, these young community members are ensuring a joyful and enriching holiday season for Gulf Coast JFCS clients.  

Delilah Brahm – Bat Mitzvah at Temple B’nai Israel of Clearwater  

On October 18, Delilah Brahm, daughter of Kevin and Danielle Brahm of Clearwater, was called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah at Temple B’nai Israel of Clearwater. Delilah organized a book drive collecting 295 books for all ages in three different languages including English, Spanish, and Hebrew, ensuring Gulf Coast JFCS clients could have a book for the holidays.  

The books collected will be part of the annual Chanukah Bazaar where community members in need will “shop” for holiday gifts and other essentials at no cost to them.  

 This gracious donation was inspired by her own personal love for reading and her hope to pass that love onto another child.  

Delilah completed her project accompanied by her mother, Danielle Brahm, and sister, Lorelai Brahm. 

Asher Palmer – Bar Mitzvah at Congregation Beth Shalom

Asher Palmer, son of Kirsten and Jay Palmer of Dunedin, was called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah on November 22 at Congregation Beth Shalom of Clearwater.

Asher generously collected 10 boxes of board games and books to support the Gulf Coast JFCS Holiday Drive benefiting clients unable to attend the Chanukah Bazaar. In 2023, Asher’s older sibling, Caleb, collected stuffed animals to comfort children served by Gulf Coast JFCS. Now, Asher is continuing a family tradition of community giving.

Zoe Asha Michelle David – Bat Mitzvah at Temple Beth-El of St. Petersburg

Zoe Asha Michelle David, daughter of Matthew and Toni David of Lutz, celebrated her B’not Mitzvah on November 15 alongside her cousins Lily Latham and Olivia Latham at Temple Beth-El of St. Petersburg.

As her service project, Zoe collected 560 books for all ages in three languages including English, Spanish, and German. These books will be distributed at the Gulf Coast JFCS Chanukah Bazaar.

Zoe was inspired to complete this project by her father, who is a librarian, and by the books he used to read to her growing up.

Celebrating Youth Generosity  

Gulf Coast JFCS extends heartfelt gratitude to these students and their families. Because of their generosity, Gulf Coast clients who rely on the Chanukah Bazaar and the Holiday Drive will be able to give or receive books and enjoy family games as gifts this holiday season.  

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ABOUT GULF COAST JFCS: 

Protecting the vulnerable, strengthening families, and empowering individuals throughout the state of Florida since 1974, Gulf Coast JFCS helps the most vulnerable people throughout our community, from babies to seniors, to find safety, comfort, and a path toward a fulfilling life. To help as many people as compassionately and comprehensively as possible through complex life challenges, Gulf Coast JFCS programs span a broad human service spectrum reaching more than 30,000 people annually throughout Tampa Bay and beyond. Our programs include career development, behavioral health services, family support, and more. The outcome – lives uplifted! Additional information is available at www.GulfCoastJFCS.org