Meals That Nourish. Community That Connects.

Where Seniors Share Meals & Life

The JCS Congregate Meals Program serves a hot, kosher lunch five days a week (excluding federal and Jewish holidays) at the JCS Diener Family Center in Miami Beach, and four days a week at Point East Condominiums in Aventura.

Additionally, the program provides opportunities for socialization through activities like Bingo, Yoga, Tai Chi, Zumba, and monthly celebrations for birthdays or holidays.

The program is open to clients of all income levels; there is no financial eligibility requirement. While all meals provided are kosher, clients are not required to observe a kosher diet to participate. Menus are thoughtfully planned to be as nutritious as possible and are designed to meet or exceed federal nutritional standards.

By providing nutritious, kosher meals in a welcoming community setting, the JCS Congregate Meals Program supports the well-being of older adults while fostering meaningful social connection. The program offers more than just a meal; it creates a vibrant environment where seniors can engage in activities that promote physical, emotional, and social health. With no income restrictions and inclusive participation, the program ensures all older adults have access to nourishment, community, and compassionate care.

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Support this Program

Support older adults in our community who rely on the JCS Congregate Meals Program for both nourishment and meaningful social interaction. While there is no income requirement to participate, many clients live on limited, fixed incomes and count on this as their primary meal, and often their only opportunity of the day to leave the house and connect with others. Your donation helps provide not only a nutritious kosher lunch, but a vital lifeline that promotes dignity, health, and a sense of belonging.

How to Get Help

Seniors or family members can learn more about the program and get help by calling JCS Access at 305.576.6550 from 8:00 am–5:00 pm, Monday through Friday or fill out the online JCS Access form.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who qualifies for JCS Congregate Meals?

All seniors in Miami-Dade County who are over 60 years old, and meet the requirements of a 701C assessment, conducted on intake. Clients do not need to be under a specific income threshold to qualify.

Can anyone attend the Miami Beach and Point East Locations?

Pending qualification confirmation, all clients are welcome to attend the Miami Beach location on the day(s) of their choosing. However, only Point East Condominium residents are able to attend the Point East location.

Do clients need to keep kosher to qualify, and what is a kosher meal?

No, clients do not need to keep kosher or be Jewish to qualify. However, all meals served follow kosher dietary restrictions. A kosher meal adheres to Jewish dietary laws, which include restrictions such as not mixing meat and dairy, consuming only permitted animals, and ensuring meat is processed and prepared according to specific religious guidelines. It involves not only the ingredients but also the methods of preparation and handling.

Can family members apply on behalf of a senior?

Yes, family members and caregivers can contact JCS to request services.

Can meals be taken home?

Meals must be eaten at the congregate meal site. Take-home meals are not permitted under program guidelines.