February 2020

Share

This is Mwavita. She is a Congolese Refugee who came here via a refugee camp in Rwanda. She speaks 3 languages and is in the process of learning English. Her husband, 5 children and 2 grandchildren resettled in Akron in 2019. Although she and her family faced many struggles in the Congo and in refugee camp, she has never lost hope. In October the IWC provided some much needed home goods to help their house become a home. Mwavita spends several hours each week learning English with IWC volunteers.

Neither snow, nor rain, or anything in between will stop IWC volunteers from serving the refugee community. On January 18th, these volunteers shoveled snow off the walkway in a freezing rain to deliver furniture to one of the first Congolese families to arrive in Akron in 2020.  This family received a couch, a bedroom set, cookware with dishes, and a brand new opportunity for a life here in the United States. The delivery ended with a friendly snow ball fight with many smiles.

The “hand up” (not hand out) these two families received is made possible by the donations and financial support of people like yourself. What makes America great is caring, generous people.

---

The IWC is now offering “Refugee Encounter.” They are ride alongs with an IWC volunteer. The experience takes about 60 minutes. It allows you to see firsthand the challenges of refugees in Akron and offers you the opportunity to be inspired by their hope and spirit.
     
If you would like information to have a “Refugee Encounter” please email Amanda Stutler. If you would like to make a donation to the IWC, please make your check to the International Welcome Center and mail to: 5781 Manchester Rd.
Akron, OH 44319