Help Keep Maine Kids Warm, One Pair of Boots at a Time
Every child deserves to feel warm, comfortable, and ready to learn — even on the coldest Maine winter days. The Jewish Community Alliance of Southern Maine (JCA), in partnership with Michael Klahr Jewish Family Services (MKJFS), brings our community together each year through the Joe Bornstein Winter Warmth Drive to help ensure children across Southern Maine have the winter boots they need.
Rooted in Jewish values of compassion, generosity, and caring for our neighbors, this initiative turns community spirit into meaningful action.
This year, we're making it easy to give directly: shop the wish lists created by participating schools to purchase boots for local children.
Jewish Values in Action
Jewish tradition teaches us the importance of tzedakah (charitable giving), gemilut chasadim (acts of loving-kindness), and tikkun olam (repairing the world).
The Joe Bornstein Winter Warmth Drive puts these values into practice by bringing people together to meet a tangible need in our community. Local schools identify the boots their students need, and generous community members help fulfill those needs.
Because caring for our neighbors means more than good intentions. It means taking action.
How it Works
Every pair of boots is a reminder that our community cares.
A Community Effort With a Lasting Impact
The Joe Bornstein Winter Warmth Drive honors Joe Bornstein's legacy of generosity and commitment to Southern Maine's nonprofit community.
Through this initiative, the JCA and MKJFS carry that spirit forward by connecting people who want to help with schools and families who need support.
By working together, we can help children arrive at school warm, comfortable, and ready to take on the day.
This is what community looks like: neighbors showing up for neighbors, one pair of boots at a time.
Be Part of the Warmth
You don't have to make a monetary donation to make a difference. This year, you can help a local child prepare for winter by purchasing boots directly from a participating school's wishlist.
Find a wishlist, pick a pair, and help us keep Maine kids warm.
