The Refugee Sponsorship Experience

Worthington United Methodist Church co-sponsored our second family of refugees from Iraq this past year and look forward to co-sponsoring another family this year with CRIS.  The CRIS organization plays a key role in helping prepare for the family’s arrival, handling immigration and social service issues, and providing language and employment services.This year, we sponsored a family of 7 with children of ages from 5 to 14.  Two of the children have disabilities and the father has significant health issues.  None of the family members had good English skills when they arrived in July, though all have improved since then – particularly the older children.  All of the children have been enrolled in school and obtained necessary medical assistance.  The parents have received some language assistance.  The father is trying to resolve his health issues so that he can seek full-time employment.  They are surviving their first winter and have made good progress in finding their way around the community.  They have a van to transport the family and both parents have drivers’ licenses.  The family is making progress, but is not yet “independent”.There were many people from our congregation that made a contribution and several who made a commitment.  Many contributed household furniture and supplies to make the apartment ready for the family’s arrival or participated in the November potluck for the two families with whom we’ve worked.  These persons share a new bond with each other and the satisfaction that comes from helping others.  A smaller number of people participated in a visit to the zoo, several shopping trips for new winter clothes, shopping for other household goods or services, trips to the library, a shared meal with the family, or other visits to share language and experiences.  This smaller group has been blessed with warm memories and the start of new friendships.  Our entire congregation has benefited by the experiences of all of these members.I recommend this experience to any congregation or group that wishes for the blessings that come to those who work together to help others.John WoltersWorthington United Methodist Church