Newcomer Support
“He executes justice for the fatherless and the widow, and loves the sojourner, giving him food and clothing. Love the sojourner, therefore, for you were sojourners in the land of Egypt” - ( Deut. 10:18,19 ESV)
Increasing numbers of refugee brothers and sisters are resettling in North America (NA). Many have come from the Democratic Republic of Congo and from Iran via Turkey. Imagine the challenges of starting afresh in a strange land, with an unfamiliar language, and different customs. Complicating matters further is the short-term financial support provided by governmental resettlement agencies, after which self-sufficiency is expected. Employment is difficult to secure, particularly if the refugee is not proficient in English and has no job experience in NA.
Oftentimes, refugee families are resettled in places that are geographically isolated from other believers, making the transition even more difficult. Tuition support was provided this past summer that enabled refugee young people an opportunity to attend Bible School, but there are also other practical needs. Housing remains a major expense, especially if the family is large or they reside in an expensive urban area. Food, transportation, healthcare, and communication costs can seem overwhelming.
Local ecclesias may lack the capacity to deal with the added financial burden of supporting refugee believers as they strive to become self-sufficient, but this need also provides us an opportunity to assist as we may be able. “Whoever has two tunics is to share with him who has none” - (Luke 3:11 ESV)