Some fun refugee tidbits!

The topic of refugees these days can be quite controversial...so I thought maybe we should talk about it. :)

With over 65 million displaced people in our world today, including over 21 million refugees…only a few lucky ones have been resettled here in America.  We are currently in the midst of the largest humanitarian crisis ever….even surpassing the amount of displaced people from WWII.

 

These desperate journeys don't always make it

The journey of a refugee is much more difficult than we can possibly even imagine…and yet here they are…ready to learn about American culture, the English language, and start their life over again. And despite the tremendous amount of frustrations they encounter on a daily basis, many of them still have an outstanding sense of humor. Not as funny as me of course, but close!  Refugees are survivors who exemplify just how strong and resilient the human spirit truly is.  

 

Picture take during a rescue mission off the coast of Libya, 8/29/16

Next year the U.S. will be welcoming 110,000 New Americans into our country. This is the highest number of refugees we'll be accepting within the past few years. But with that being said, out of more than the 65 million people who are currently displaced, accepting 110,000 people is only .0017% of this population. There are millions and millions of people out there who are fleeing their countries and looking for a safe place to call home, many of them women and children.

New arrivals with donated clothes from all of you!  :)

In 2017, it's possible that the US will be launching a pilot program for private sponsorship of refugees….which will allow for individual Americans and communities to help resettle refugees on their own.  This will give new hope, opportunities and provide safety for thousands of more people.

One of my favorite fams :)

I know that many people are worried about the Syrian refugees arriving, but please don't be. :)

They are put through the most extensive level of security screening of any traveler to the United States. The screening process is ridiculously difficult and many of the new Syrians arriving are women with their children.

One of my new favorite families just arrived from Syria about three weeks ago and they are the absolute sweetest. They've already welcomed me with cups of tea and are ever so grateful for every little thing.

Seriously, best Halloween night ever. I must have said something funny

Our new American friends enrich our culture and communities, contribute to our economy, and are a great blessing in so many ways. I understand that stereotypes, worries, and fears do exist, but once you befriend a local refugee, you'll understand how truly wonderful these people are.

Some pumpkins were better than others....