Jewish Community Housing Corporation of Metropolitan NJ

  One of the most exciting events of Spring, especially for JCHC, has to be Passover! For those who may not be familiar,  Passover commemorates the liberation of Jews from the Egyptian pharaoh as told in the Book of Exodus. Passover usually lasts between seven and eight days and begins with Seder. During Seder, families gather to retell the heroic story of how the Israelites escaped from Egypt, while enjoying symbolic food and drink like Charoset, matzah, and wine. But how did these symbolic traditions emerge and are they celebrated any differently today?  The Origin Story of Passover   In order to understand how the Passover traditions came to be, we have to go back to the beginning. As told in the Book of Exodus, the Pharaoh fears that the Jews living in Egypt will overpower the Egyptian people. With this in mind, he decides the best way to preven this is to enforce slavery and demand that male Jewish babies be killed in order to prevent further reproduction o...

  Sweet apples, toasted walnuts and spicy cinnamon make Charoset the perfect last bite to any meal. However, it’s traditionally served during Passover. If you’re unfamiliar with this joyous spring holiday, t he celebration of Passover commemorates the freeing of the Jews from slavery under the Egyptian pharaoh as told in the Book of Exodus. Passover usually lasts between seven and eight days and begins with ritual feasts known as seders. During seder, families gather to retell the heroic story of how the Israelites escaped from Egypt, while enjoying symbolic foods like Charoset. Why Charoset is symbolic to Passover is a little more complicated. Some believe that Charoset represents the mortar that the Jews used to build Egyptian buildings. Others believe it refers to a sacred fruit plant mentioned in the Song of Songs and the Talmud. Either way, Charoset is an on-going tradition and we’re glad to hear it! Here is how we make delicious Charoset at the JCHC communities in New Jersey....

  It’s Employee Appreciation Day and we’d like to give “Ah groisen dank” (a big thanks) to all of our staff members throughout the Jewish Community Housing Corporation. All of our residents are in the right hands, thanks to your hard work, dedication and compassion. A special shoutout is in order for a few outstanding staff members from the Lester Senior Living community.  If we had to describe the staff at Lester Senior Living in particular, it would be that they are a team that doesn’t really stick to titles or positions. They aren’t afraid to pitch in with tasks that are outside their comfort zone. Every department provides a helping hand to one another which is truly an incredible thing to see. Without further ado, let us introduce  a few (of the many) wonderful staff members from the Lester Senior Living community in Morris County, NJ.  Nettie Leander – LPN/Medical Secretary Nettie is dedicated, enthusiastic and truly our ‘go to’ person. Nettie is the true defin...

  Yoga is ideal for seniors seeking to relieve stress and clear their mind. Regular practice will not only improve balance and mobility, but it may also help ease back pain, relieve depression, and even reduce blood pressure for older adults with hypertension. It’s important to note that improving balance and mobility will directly impact a senior’s likelihood of falling. The more agile you are, the less likely you are to fall – it’s really that simple. So, what are you waiting for? Now is the time to try out yoga! If you’re not sure what type of yoga to start with, don’t worry – the team at the Jewish Community Housing Corporation has put together a list of the 3 most popular types of yoga for seniors.  Chair Yoga  This beginner yoga class is best for seniors just starting out, or seniors with injuries, chronic conditions or who have trouble balancing. The chair allows you to perform yoga poses while sitting or standing. Some classes may lead with chair poses exclusively...