Church World Service

🏳️🌈 Love is never wrong. 🏳️🌈 We are proud to work towards a world where all LGBTQ+ people can live in safety and dignity. We are so grateful to all the members of our own community who are walking alongside us this #PrideMonth and all year long. 💛

It's #ThankfulThursday! Today, we're highlighting Shrewsbury Community Church in Vermont. They are one of the many congregations and groups that assemble CWS Kits each year. Thanks to the generosity of our dedicated donors, CWS can distribute these kits to our neighbors in need when they need them most. Thank you!

On Tuesday evening, May 14th, CWS hosted an evening reception at the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America in Chicago, Il. During the event, CWS CEO, Rick S. and Board Chair, Rev David Vasquez-Levy presented the Faithful Partner Award to Presiding Bishop, Rev. Elizabeth A. Eaton. The event was well attended by the members of the CWS Board of Directors, CWS and ELCA Staff and leadership of the ELCA. Warm remarks were given, celebrating the long-term partnership and the impact CWS and the ELCA have achieved together.  CWS appreciates Bishop Eaton’s leadership and the generosity of ELCA members, and the many ways our partnership benefits the world.

Join us for a special panel discussion on World Refugee Day as we celebrate the resilience and stories of newcomers in our community. Our panelists will share their journeys, experiences, and insights, shedding light on the challenges and triumphs of resettlement.

We were honored to be part of nearly 300 advocates from 33 states and over 50 countries of origin in Washington, DC during National Advocacy Days. This pivotal event aligns with our mission to build power alongside those with lived experiences and advocate for more inclusive and welcoming programs and communities. Standing up for refugee resettlement is crucial as we work to rebuild vital programs, seek accountability from our nation's leaders, and secure the supportive funding necessary to ensure that those forcibly displaced have a safe place to land. Here are a few quotes from our staff who participated in the advocacy days and shared their experiences.

Last month, we shipped nearly 4,600 items to support various communities and disaster relief efforts across the United States. Our top recipients included Ohio, North Carolina, and Michigan, where organizations like St. Paul's UCC and The Second Beginning are making a significant impact. We thank our supporters and donors who accompany us throughout our mission.

In McPherson, Kansas, a small community has banded together to help Ukrainian refugees through the McPherson Welcomers group, led by Nancy Magnall and Tina Burkholder. Their efforts started after the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and they've successfully sponsored and integrated multiple Ukrainian families, making a big difference in the local community. Their journey, with the support of Church World Service and Welcome.US, and other organizations, shows how compassion and community action can have a real impact. Learn more:https://bit.ly/4btrXcb

Through temporary shelter, essential needs assistance, and partnerships with local landlords, CWS in Jersey City makes a real difference. Newcomers have found a new home and a brighter future, dreaming about the future and enhancing skills for a dream job. All of this starts with adequate housing, which is what we stand for and strive to always support! Learn more: https://bit.ly/3K9RqeL

A record 75.9 million people are now internally displaced due to conflicts and disasters globally. This staggering number marks a 50% increase in just five years, with the highest figures in Sudan, DRC, and Palestine. Families are being torn apart, losing their homes and communities, struggling without adequate protection and assistance. 🛑 You can access the full global report on internal displacement released by IDMC https://bit.ly/3QPA8at #Displacement #GlobalCrisis #ActNow

After Hurricane Dorian, Dr. Gregory Swann transformed from a government psychologist to a community leader. Expanding his role to conduct wellness checks and support Haitian migrants, he enhanced community resilience through collaborations and mental health initiatives. His continued optimism fuels ongoing efforts to rebuild and strengthen vulnerable communities. This #MentalHealthAwarenessMonth we celebrate Dr. Swann's proactive efforts to protect the mental health and wellbeing of everyone in his community. Learn more https://bit.ly/4bEM1rz