The Shenandoah District works with Church World Service’s resettlement staff in Harrisonburg to welcome individuals and families who have been displaced from their native countries and are relocating to the Harrisonburg-Rockingham County area. Congregations can be partners in this effort by sponsoring a refugee family or by donating household items, appliances, and furniture in cooperation with other congregations. Sponsor congregations assist in finding and furnishing adequate housing, providing transportation as needed, and helping to acquaint newcomers with community resources such as medical care, education, and social services. The Shenandoah District can offer a small grant to help congregations begin a resettlement ministry, and has information available explaining the expectations for resettlement sponsors. Contact the office at 234-8555 for more information or to invite a speaker to come to your small group or congregation to discuss the opportunities for serving newcomers to our community.
