World Refugee Day and Immigrant Heritage Month

June 2022

As the world draws attention to refugees and California celebrates immigrants, our hearts are with our East Bay Afghan community members whose families have felt the latest devastation of a massive earthquake in their home country. We also recognize the latest migration tragedy to unfold with loss of human life as thousands of migrating people seek safe haven, family reunification, and opportunity within our borders. We continue to field inquiries to support people displaced from their homes in Ukraine and take pride in our ongoing LGBTQ+ refugee resettlement services.

Global issues have local impact. We recognize the acute and ongoing pain of our immigrant and refugee community members. We also recognize that immigrants and refugees strengthen life for all in the East Bay. Together, we will continue to welcome our new neighbors, attend to their legal needs, reunite families, and offer ongoing support services so that the East Bay can be a community where all people can flourish with dignity.

Robin Mencher

CEO

NEWS UPDATE:

A NEW WAVE OF AFGHAN REFUGEES

Since last July, JFCS East Bay has resettled 700 people.

Even as the Ukraine crisis dominates headlines, another wave of Afghan refugees arrives. We are resettling an average of 3.5 families per week.

• Watch a short ABC news video. Our client Nasrullah describes his family's situation.

HOW CAN I HELP?

Let us know if you can:

• Purchase and deliver groceries to clients facing food insecurity.

• Organize collection drives for school supplies, cleaning items, etc.

• Donate adult bikes in good condition so refugees can access better jobs.

• Buy a gift card so a newly-arrived family can purchase essentials.

• Order from our Wish List. These items are placed directly into the hands of those who need them.

• Donate your car. We use the proceeds to fund vital programs.

• Fill out our volunteer interest form.

LEAVE A LEGACY

Leave a social justice legacy in your community.

With a world in turmoil, gifts like this are a way of securing the future. 

WELCOMING UKRAINIANS:

Our resettlement partner HIAS is collecting applications for Welcome Circles to welcome, sponsor, and support Ukrainians as they arrive to the U.S.

The last day to apply is July 22. Apply here.

Learn more about Welcome Circles:

July 11 | 4:00pm PT

Forming a HIAS Welcome Circle: Language, Interpretation & Translation, & Cultural Connections

Virtual / Hosted by HIAS

More info & register

July 14 | 4:00pm PT

Forming a HIAS Welcome Circle: Housing, Basic Necessities, & Employment

Virtual / Hosted by HIAS

More info & register

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