The Refugee Welcome Network (RWN) celebrates the recent “graduation” of seven families who have worked hard to settle in Washington County over the last year or more and grow in self-sufficiency! As these families continue to grow in their new homes, RWN’s work continues, with the acceptance of four new families since September and continued assistance for five families.
Each “graduate” family has settled into their new home in Washington County with stable housing, work, improved English skills, a community of friends, and more. This is thanks to their hard work, and the generosity of many of YOU who have donated time, talents, funds and goods.
Here are some excerpts taken from a note of gratitude from one graduate:
Thank you for kindness and humanity!
…I remember last year at this time how much difficulties we had? You helped us during this hard time mostly for transportation, rent, paying utility bills, appliances, clothes, shoes…
…There are many many things we are not able to count, the most important humanity and smiley faces from all members. You are always in our heart.
…Now we feel you are like our family member, we can share our good/bad news with you and our door is always open for you as well.
New families welcomed by RWN come from Iran, Afghanistan, Haiti and Angola. Each bring pieces of their unique and beautiful culture and a strong desire to work and fit into this community. They and their RWN Allies have been accepting furniture and household goods from our warehouse as they begin to start their lives over in our Community. However, our stores of goods are nearly gone. We currently have these needs::
All kinds of baby supplies – a baby is due to arrive in just a few weeks!
pressure cookers/rice cookers/Instapots
water kettles
file cabinet
everyday dish sets and flatware sets
leftover containers
towels
queen and twin size sheets
two sets of XL twin sheets
pillows and mattress covers
warm blankets, comforters and quilts
queen headboards and queen mattresses
twin mattresses
area rugs and carpets
washer and dryer
vacuum cleaner
personal hygiene items
baby wipes and small size diapers (newborn and up)
toys
We will thankfully accept items that are new or in good used condition. Financial donations are always needed, and help with rent and needs we can’t get donated; they can be made HERE.
RWN is now helping with post-graduate workforce development, which for some individuals includes entrepreneurial work. The talent pool includes an excellent seamstress, drivers, a cleaning crew, and some who can help with landscaping, moving or jobs around the house.
Have some time to volunteer? RWN is in need of volunteers to be allies (work directly with families) and to be part of a new Volunteer Coordination Team, among other opportunities.
To volunteer, donate furniture and goods, or hire someone for their skills listed above, please email refugeewelcome@harc.datachievereview.xyz.
Refugee Welcome Network is a program under the auspices of the Hagerstown Area Religious Council (HARC).
