WHITE PLAINS, NY (October 20, 2026) — As Westchester communities face mounting challenges in mental health, economic instability, food insecurity, aging, and access to care, Westchester Jewish Community Services (WJCS) recently convened elected officials and community leaders for its annual Legislative Breakfast to discuss solutions and strengthen partnerships supporting the region’s most vulnerable residents.
Held at the WJCS Community Connections Center in Yonkers, the gathering offered WJCS leadership the opportunity to share the impact of its programs and services, highlight emerging needs across the county, and explore ways for government and nonprofit organizations to work together to expand access to critical resources, including mental health care, social services, workforce development, supports for older adults, and basic needs assistance.
WJCS was honored to welcome a distinguished group of state and county leaders, including New York State Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, New York State Senator Shelley Mayer, Westchester County Board of Legislators Chairman Vedat Gashi, County Legislator Nancy Barr; and County Legislator and Majority Leader Judah Holstein. Also participating were Alyssa Jacobs, representing New York State Assemblymember MaryJane Shimsky, and Verena Arnabal, representing New York State Assemblymember Steve Otis.
“We are incredibly grateful for the support of our elected officials and their commitment to ensuring that individuals and families throughout Westchester have access to the services and opportunities they need to thrive.” said Seth Diamond, CEO of WJCS. “The challenges facing our communities are increasingly complex and interconnected. Addressing them requires strong partnerships among nonprofits, government leaders, and community stakeholders.”
WJCS expressed special appreciation to Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins for her longstanding support of both WJCS and the Family Services Society of Yonkers (FSSY). Through her leadership and advocacy, she secured nearly $430,000 in state funding this year alone to support vital programs in behavioral health, early childhood development, guardianship services, and academic support for children and families.
WJCS also recognized the continued partnership of members of the Westchester State Senate and Assembly delegations, the Westchester County Board of Legislators, and federal representatives. Their collective support has expanded access to essential community-based services and strengthened the nonprofit safety net for thousands of Westchester residents.
Throughout the discussion, participants explored pressing issues affecting local communities, including mental health and trauma services, food insecurity, aging in place, family stability, and equitable access to care. The conversation reinforced a shared commitment to advancing solutions that help individuals and families build healthier, more secure futures.
In addition to collaborating with public officials, WJCS remains committed to empowering those it serves to engage in civic life. In recognition of election season, WJCS has developed bilingual resources to educate clients about voting options and opportunities to serve as election inspectors. A More Perfect Union: The Partnership for Jewish Democracy supports these initiatives, helping clients become informed and active participants in the democratic process.
WJCS sincerely thanks everyone who attended and contributed to the conversation. By working together across sectors, government, nonprofit, and community leaders can continue to strengthen Westchester’s network of support and create opportunities for all residents to thrive.
