Refugee Resettlement

Did you know that there are 14 million refugees worldwide? 14 million. With a number that large, it's easy to think that we cannot make a difference and to just imagine refugees as a faceless entity that we can ignore. But refugees aren't faceless, they have names and need just like you and I. They had hopes a dreams for themselves and for their children that were dashed because of civil unrest, because of their ethnicity, or because of a war in which they are not involved. They are God's children, just like you and I and they are in need of help.

Annually, the United stated welcomes 80,000 refugees for resettlement. This means that less than 1% of refugees will be resettled. However, it means everything to those 80,000 who have worked for 20-30 years to be eligible for resettlement. Living lifetimes in conditions that we couldn't imagine in hopes of better opportunities and a chance to feel safe - to not have guards with assault riffles as a part of their normal day.

Each year, Church World Service (CWS) resettles 200+ refugees in the Greensboro area. These individuals are placed in communities within their ethnic group so that they are able to have an immediate sense of community. The are provided with case management and assisted in finding employment. They learn English as a second language - as astoundingly rapid rates. They are taught how to shop, pay bills, and do the other things that you and I take for granted. In all of these things, they are guided by staff and volunteers with CWS.

Where does your CROP money go? Yes, 75% of it goes to CWS, but clearly, that is having an impact on our own community. It is making it a richer, more diverse place to live. A place where we embrace those who have been persecuted and are able to daily exhibit God's grace and love to our brothers and sisters. That is where your CROP money goes.

For more information on how you can be part of the Greater Greensboro CROP Hunger Walk, please visit www.greatergreensborocropwalk.org.