[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Our hearts break as we continue to watch the refugee crisis in our world unfold day by day. The situation feels overwhelming as we take in horrific stories, images, and issues that are bigger and more complex than any of us can truly comprehend. How do we begin to wrap our minds and hearts around these circumstances?

Over 20 million people in our world today currently have no country to call home; more than half of these are children. Beyond this, the UNHCR (UN Refugee Agency) estimates that over 65 million people have been displaced from their homes by war, violence, and persecution in our day, roughly one in every 122 people. In the face of such difficulty, with deep dependence on God, we desire to be a community of thoughtful reflection, fervent prayer, and courageous leadership. We want our love for these brothers and sisters to spring into action as we learn, lament, pray, and–with God’s help–personally engage.

Toward this end, we invite you to explore the opportunities available to us.

Care for Refugees in Kansas City

There are some wonderful local organizations serving refugees here in our city. Opportunities to serve include simple steps such as providing a welcome at the airport, training refugees on using our public transportation, or acquainting them with our city. There are more long-term opportunities for service as well, such as “adopting” a refugee family, tutoring, or volunteering in an organization’s office.

Here’s a list of RESOURCES for specific opportunities.

We invite you to familiarize yourself with the local agencies serving refugees in our city:

• JVS (Jewish Vocational Services), Missouri
• Catholic Charities Refugee & Migrant Services, Kansas
• Refuge: Welcoming the Stranger (Facebook Group), Northeast KC

Learn and Pray for Refugees

Below are some resources to assist you in deeper understanding.

Organizations and Coalitions:

• What Can We Do About the Refugee Crisis
• We Welcome Refugees
• The UN Refugee Agency
• World Relief
• World Vision

Articles:

• A Refugee Mom’s To-Do List
• Christian Declaration on Caring for Refugees

Books:

• Seeking Refuge: On the Shores of the Global Refugee Crisis
• Welcoming the Stranger

Prayer Guides:

• Pray for Refugees
• World Relief Prayer Guide
• World Vision Prayer Guide

Advocate and Give to Refugees

Consider giving to one of the organizations listed in this article.

Use social media to advocate and raise funds amongst your friends. (Here’s one example.)[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]