The daily headlines are telling the story of the fall of Kabul and the rush of Afghans to flee – anywhere. Many thousands of refugees are coming to America, and a significant number are coming to Northern Virginia. What can we do to help?
Some families may be resettled in Alexandria. While we wait for more details, there are two useful and practical steps we can take now.
- Inform ourselves about this unfolding human drama to learn where we can have an impact. An excellent resource is Episcopal Migration Ministries. EMM is one of nine national refugee resettlement agencies supporting undocumented refugees to find a safe place to live in America.
Find out how to stay involved in The Episcopal Church’s work on Afghanistan through our Office of Government Relations at https://www.episcopalchurch.org/ministries/office-government-relations/
Two other excellent websites are focused locally and are worth a visit: Lutheran Social Services National Capital Area (lccnca.org) and Catholic Charities (catholiccharitiesusa.org).
- Another important avenue is financial assistance. All three of these informative websites are seeking donations. EMM estimates it needs at least $3000 worth of housing and cash assistance for each refugee, many of whom have arrived with only the clothes they are wearing.
To contribute financially to provide for housing, medical and financial support, and expanded community sponsorship to serve our Afghan allies, visit bit.ly/supportafghanallies to make a secure donation online, or text “EMMALLIES” to 41444.
Melanie Gray from Christ Church Alexandria is monitoring the situation with other partners in Northern Virginia and sharing updates with members of the local outreach community. The Grace Outreach Team will continue to keep the parish informed as the situation unfolds in our area.
For more information, contact John Berry at john.berry@gracealex.org.