Where has September gone?

You might have noticed we didn’t post in September, so where have we been?  CRIS welcomed nearly eighty new refugees to Columbus last month!  Our staff members and interns have been busy finding housing, making sure each family has furniture, food, and household items.  Not only that they’ve been walking new families through all the appointments they have to go to when they arrive in Columbus and answering all sorts of questions about what life will be like in the US- What will my school be like?  When will I get a job?  What kind of job will I get?  Where can I buy groceries?  How can I ride the bus? Welcoming almost 80 people is no joke!  These are all individuals coming with both hopes and fears about their new life in Columbus and our staff, interns, and volunteers are doing  wonderful job fielding their questions and making them feel welcome.Most important, we want to recognize the community members who have partnered with CRIS to welcome the many families who arrived in September.  We could not do the work we’re doing without interns and volunteers and we have so much an appreciation and respect for you!Please, help us achieve our mission to empower refugees and immigrants to reach and sustain self-sufficiency by considering donating some material items this month.  The weather is getting colder and families need blankets, hats, scarves, and coats.  In addition we’re always collecting household items: dishes, silverware, pots & pans, bedding, pillows, shower curtains (with rings!), towels, trash cans, toilet paper, and cleaning supplies- these are just some of the basics.  When families’ basic needs are met they can focus on language learning, seeking sustainable employment, and supporting their families as they adjust to life in a new country.