As President Trump signed the Budget Reconciliation Bill into law on July 4, Jewish Family & Children’s Services of Southern Arizona is preparing for what could be significant changes to how the organization serves those most in need in the community.
The legislation will cut federal Medicaid spending by $863 billion over ten years and could result in millions of Americans losing their health coverage. For Southern Arizona, where over 613,000 people gained coverage through the state’s Medicaid expansion, the impact could be substantial.
“JFCS will be significantly impacted by these federal policy changes, as we rely on Medicaid funding to support a substantial portion of our clients and our operations,” said Carlos A. Hernández, President and CEO of JFCS of Southern Arizona.
The new law introduces work requirements for Medicaid expansion recipients, increases administrative burdens through more frequent eligibility reviews, and reduces federal support for safety net programs that many JFCS clients depend on.
Uncertain Implementation Timeline
The extent of the impact on JFCS remains unclear as implementation details from the federal government and Arizona’s Medicaid program, known as the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS), have yet to be determined.
What the organization does anticipate is a growing demand for its services as individuals encounter greater barriers to accessing healthcare and social support. JFCS serves a diverse population, including children, older adults, Holocaust survivors, and those experiencing trauma.
“While we know that funding to support our community’s needs will decrease, we anticipate a growing demand for our services,” Hernández explained. “The families we serve will need our support more than ever.”
Strategic Response Planning
Founded in 1941, JFCS has built its reputation as a comprehensive provider of behavioral health and social services in Southern Arizona. The organization serves people of all faiths, backgrounds, and economic circumstances, regardless of their ability to pay.
In response to the federal changes, JFCS is implementing several strategies:
- Monitoring policy implementation while advocating for the community
- Strengthening partnerships with local organizations and funders
- Expanding outreach efforts to ensure those needing services can access them
- Exploring innovative service delivery models to maximize impact
The organization is also closely watching how federal changes may influence its various funding streams beyond Medicaid.
Drawing on Decades of Experience
JFCS has weathered significant challenges before. Throughout its 84-year history, JFCS has weathered economic downturns, policy changes, and community crises. Each time, the organization has emerged stronger.
The organization’s approach is grounded in Jewish values, including tikkun olam (repairing the world), tzedakah (justice), and chesed (loving-kindness), principles that are not dependent on federal funding streams.
Community Network Response
JFCS is part of a broader network of social service organizations in Southern Arizona that are all grappling with potential impacts from the federal legislation. As the implementation timeline for the new legislation becomes clearer, JFCS plans to keep the community informed about how services may be affected.
“We serve a resilient community, and we are part of a network of organizations committed to ensuring that no one falls through the cracks,” Hernández said.
For more information about JFCS services, visit www.jfcstucson.org or call (520) 795-0300.
