Welcoming New Neighbors in the New Year
Refugee families get a fresh start in Delaware
For the past two years, after political restrictions and the worldwide pandemic halted refugee admissions to the United States, Jewish Family Services of Delaware—the only refugee resettlement agency in the state—remained dedicated to advocating for and assisting newcomers to America as they rebuild their lives in our community.
Now, with the country’s borders reopened and refugee admissions cap increased, JFS Delaware’s Refugee Integration Support Effort (RISE) is busier than ever. Since June, over 40 individuals have come to Delaware from war-torn countries around the world including Sudan, Rwanda, Vietnam, Eritrea, as well as refugees fleeing from Afghanistan.
“That may not sound like a lot when there are 64,000 people waiting in military bases, but it was what we knew we could manage,” said Rosi Crosby, JFS Delaware’s Chief Strategy Officer. “JFS is working with many partners in the community to find sufficient housing and resources for these families when they arrive.”
The individuals who have arrived are quickly settling into their new American homes. Most families have secured permanent housing; some adults have gained employment as others work through the application process; children are being enrolled in school and English lessons, and have enjoyed activities like visiting the library and trick-or-treating.
Perhaps most importantly, each family has a trained and trusted “Circle of Care”—volunteers from congregations and groups who are helping them navigate each aspect of integration into our community.
“Circles of Care have become an essential part of ensuring our families reach self-sufficiency,” shared JFS Volunteer Coordinator, Emily Griffith. “These volunteers help refugees access employment by utilizing social capital, assist with English language learning, provide transportation to appointments, and get them acquainted with the community and American culture—they play a huge role in each refugee family’s successful integration into Delaware.”
These volunteer services and relationships extend for years beyond the initial case management period and provide a level of support that is invaluable to the families and the JFS team.
With added support from volunteers and donors, JFS Case Managers are able to focus their attention on assisting with important benefit applications and addressing physical and mental health needs—many of these families have been through traumatic circumstances to arrive in America. Personalized, trauma-informed care is essential to help refugees and their families cope with this huge transition.
“Circles of Care have become an essential part of ensuring our families reach self-sufficiency,” shared JFS Volunteer Coordinator, Emily Griffith. “These volunteers help refugees access employment by utilizing social capital, assist with English language learning, provide transportation to appointments, and get them acquainted with the community and American culture—they play a huge role in each refugee family’s successful integration into Delaware.”
These volunteer services and relationships extend for years beyond the initial case management period and provide a level of support that is invaluable to the families and the JFS team.
With added support from volunteers and donors, JFS Case Managers are able to focus their attention on assisting with important benefit applications and addressing physical and mental health needs—many of these families have been through traumatic circumstances to arrive in America. Personalized, trauma-informed care is essential to help refugees and their families cope with this huge transition.
“We recognize each family’s trauma and experience and needs are very uniquely theirs,” Crosby said, sharing that one family had their home destroyed and their possessions stolen as they escaped Afghanistan. “Each refugee family’s needs are very different and complicated and we’re taking extra care to address this.”
Cyndi Germack, the director of JFS’ refugee program, added, “There are so many people—volunteers, case managers, landlords, employers, healthcare providers, local leaders, and more—who help in several ways, big and small, that make such an impact for these families. Whether it’s showing them how to use a microwave or assisting with utility payments, finding affordable housing and healthcare, or assisting with job applications and school work, you can just feel their gratitude for each kindness they receive.”
“New arrivals have been especially eager and grateful for access to technology and internet service to stay connected with loved ones abroad and follow global news,” shared Germack.
JFS Delaware expects to welcome an additional 26 individuals in the coming months, including students seeking to continue their studies in America and family members reuniting with those who have already arrived.
Guided by our Jewish history and values, JFS treats all people with kindness and dignity, regardless of history or background. We graciously accept our obligation to welcome and befriend the stranger and are honored to do this work with the support of our community.
“I want to be very clear,” said Crosby. “The Afghan families that are here and the other refugees from these other countries are experienced, brave, capable individuals who want to succeed in the United States and are working closely with us to understand the basic components of life as they navigate this fresh start.”