About Us
SHIFRA(aka In Shifra’s Arms) is the only Jewish organization in the United States dedicated to supporting women experiencing an unplanned pregnancy. We offer our social services nationwide. We are a nonpartisan 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.
Our supporters, board, volunteers, and staff reflect a diverse group of Jews, including Orthodox and secular, pro-choice and pro-life and the myriad in between. We join together to nurture women experiencing unplanned pregnancy crises.
Our Mission
Our mission is to nurture women through unplanned pregnancy crises and help them build a flourishing future for themselves and their children.
Our Name
Our organization is named for SHIFRA, one of the two midwives mentioned in the book of Exodus, known for her exceptional courage. We chose the symbol of the midwife since, through the ages, midwives have cared for countless women amidst the challenges of pregnancy, birth and beyond.
How We Work
Women can count us to treat them with respect, dignity and sensitivity always and no matter what.
LEAN ON US
Erica Pelman
Founder & Executive Director
“Our namesake, SHIFRA, served as midwife to the Jews while they were oppressed in Egypt three thousand years ago. I can just imagine her tending to the needs of the pregnant Israelite slaves. She could not change the circumstances around them.
But she refused to let hope die. Her faith in the future nurtured the hearts of each woman who sought her help- freeing them to embrace their children.
It is time for the Jewish community to follow SHIFRAexample and embrace vulnerable pregnant women among us. No woman should have to so struggle in silence, no matter what circumstances she may face. That’s why our team at SHIFRA is answering her call.
Meet the Team
What brings us together is our mission to serve and the belief that women struggling with unplanned pregnancies should have support available to help them overcome their challenges and create a flourishing future for themselves and their children.
A dedicated team of professionals supports SHIFRA day-to-day functions and the Board manages the organization’s long-term goals. If you are interested in contributing your professional skills or experience to support our mission, please visit the Get Involved page.
Chaya Topas
Fran Gutstein
Menucha Robeson
Always on our team
Fraida Nathan
Serving 2013-2022
Remembered As a Blessing
Fraida served as our founding In Shifra's Arms (now SHIFRA) Helpline counselor. Without her wisdom, authenticity, and endless compassion, SHIFRA would never have gotten off the ground. She will always be on our team. Her gifts will always guide our vision of how to save lives by empowering and nurturing women.