Are We Abandoning Refugees Upon Arrival in the U.S.?
How can we change the perception to one that says "refugees are a benefit to the local community?" I think part of the answer is related to how we view the role of the public domain (local and state governments) in the care of vulnerable populations. Is it the sole responsibility of government to provide services? ... Read More
Welcoming up to 100 Somali refugees
World Relief Minnesota will be resettling 100 Somali refugees in the Twin Cities between May and September 2010. We are inviting Twin Cities’ churches to provide a warm welcome to these new neighbors who are arriving with no family or fiends awaiting them. To find out more about the specific ways you, your church, or your small group can join World Relief Minnesota in welcoming these Somali families, visit our website and contact our Volunteer Coordinator at mnvolunteers@wr.org ... Read More
Refugees in Minnesota: The Nations at Our Doorstep
Imagine... living in fear of forced labor camps, debilitating taxation, no representation, and State sponsored physical and sexual abuse. Imagine... your family targeted because of your ethnicity. Now, ask yourself, “What would I do to protect my spouse, my children, myself from torture, persecution and death?” This is the life of a refugee. This is the life many of the refugees coming to Minnesota have experienced. They have fled for their lives – leaving their homeland behind completely – their homes in Somalia, Laos, Burma, Liberia, Bhutan and many other places. And through the efforts of the UNHCR and the U.S. Deptarment of State they have been transplanted to Minnesota. ... Read More
Donate Household Goods
A Refugee Welcome Kit contains all the basic household necessities that refugee families need needed to start a new home. The typical Welcome Kit should be large enough for a family of 4 to 8 members. Providing a Welcome Kit is a great way for a family or a volunteer group to donate because it ensures that one entire refugee family will have their basic household needs met as soon as they arrive in Minnesota. Donors are offered the opportunity to meet the Welcome Kit recipients and build a relationship with the newly arrived refugees. For more information, contact mnvolunteers@wr.org |
Mentor a Refugee FamilyNewly arrived refugees experience a world of change when they land in the Twin Cities. World Relief Minnesota staff provide some basic needs and access to social services. Refugees need so much more; they need friends to explain American culture, to invite them into their homes, and to experience life together. We are looking for individuals and small groups to come around a refugee family to befriend them. Take a first step today! Learn more about volunteering. Contact the Volunteer Coordinator mnvolunteers@wr.org We’ll supply technical assistance; You supply entry into your life; Befriending refugees … priceless! “Each person, and each culture, has a unique secret. Each is capable of knowing something of God which no one else knows. In the meeting of strangers we have the opportunity to share that treasure with each other.” –Bernard T. Adeney |
