Refugee Support Network, a local, all-volunteer 501C3 established in 2017, helps newly arrived families that fled violence in their home country. They are now refugees or asylum seekers who want to restart their lives in our community with most being families with small children. The women are the main focus of our organization since most husbands are working and many mothers remain at home, feeling very isolated and caring for children.
We are looking for individuals who would be willing to meet, perhaps once a week, with a new arrival, typically a woman and children. Initially, we meet in their home, have a cup of tea and help them speak English. As trust builds, our friends may ask for advice on schools, where to shop and how to navigate the bus system. This can be a team of people from your circle of friends, faith groups, etc. but individuals are welcome.
RSN remains a resource to these families, linking them to various partner agencies (furniture, food pantry, clothing, medical, etc), while many times helping them with transportation.
RSN will meet with potential volunteers first, and then introduce them to a family needing this support. If you would like to learn more about being a "Special Friend" one of our wonderful new families, please visit our website to complete a volunteer application at: bloomingtonrefugees.org. Families needing support are from Syria, Afghanistan, Columbia, Venezuela, Iraq, S. Sudan, Congo, and others.
Many have found this Special Friend relationship to be "heart-opening" work, leading to a deeper appreciation of themselves and their new friends.
Thank you for your kindness.
