Connection, Community & Engagement
JFamily is a JCA program bringing families and children together around Jewish values, holidays and culture. We offer a warm welcome for families looking to connect. Our programs provide opportunities to socialize, explore, celebrate and create community.
- Programs are subject to change. See our website and announcements for the latest information.
- All programs are held at the JCA, unless otherwise noted.
- JCA closures will be announced via WCSH, WGME, WMTW, and on www.mainejewish.org and the JCA’s voicemail at (207) 772-1959.
Play with PJ - open playdate
Fridays, twice monthly September-May
10:45 - 11:45 AM
JCA - 1342 Congress St., Portland
Celebrate seasons, holidays and friendship with free PJ Library play dates! We welcome 0-3-year-olds and their caregivers to join us for free play in our community hall followed by stories and songs. Families are welcome to bring a lunch or snack and hang out after play time, then join in for Shabbat with the Goldman Family Preschool at 12:15 PM.
Community Giving Day
Co-sponsored by Congregation Bet Ha’am, Temple Beth El, Klahr Jewish Family Services and PJ Library
Sunday, October 20
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Congregation Bet Ha’am – 81 Westbrook Street, South Portland
Kindness matters! Gather with us as a community to learn from and do activities with local organizations that help people experiencing poverty, homelessness and food insecurity.
Shalom Baby Shower
Sunday, November 17
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
JCA – 1342 Congress Street, Portland
Mazel Tov! PJ Library invites families who have welcomed a new child in the past year to join us to celebrate your newest family member!
Please join us for a nosh and some playtime. Meet other new parents and receive a welcome gift for your child. RSVP to Andrea at 772-1959 or pjlibrary@mainejewish.org so we can have your child’s gift ready.
Tzedakah Celebration with PJ Library and KJFS
Wednesday, December 18
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM
JCA – 1342 Congress Street, Portland
Join us for a potluck dinner and family tzedakah (righteous giving) party celebrating the end of this year's Hanukkah Lights program and the power of giving in our community! We will share dinner and tzedakah-themed activities together. Please bring a favorite dairy/vegetarian dish to share (no meat please). Donations will also be collected for those who have sponsored a family or child through the KJFS Hanukkah Lights program.