The Episcopal Church has long been a strong advocate for refugee resettlement, guided by our faith’s call to welcome the stranger and support those in need. Our commitment to this work is rooted in a longstanding partnership with resettlement organizations to provide assistance, advocacy, and hospitality to those fleeing conflict, persecution, and hardship.
With the recent loss of federal funding, many local refugee resettlement agencies struggle to provide the necessary support for those in their communities. Whether responding to urgent needs, offering short-term or long-term assistance, or advocating for just policies, churches have many opportunities to step in and take meaningful action. Below is a list of resources to guide this important work.
Volunteering
Church World Services is seeking volunteers to assist in the Harrisburg and Lancaster areas. Tasks may include accompanying individuals to appointments, enrolling them in English language classes, and setting up apartments.
Advocacy
Advocating for refugee support is a critical way to make a difference. The Episcopal Church Office of Public Relations shares how to advocate to US Senators and Representatives.
Donations
Gift Card Collection
Church World Services is collecting grocery store gift cards to distribute to immigrants and refugees in need. Collect and send gift cards to:
CWS Harrisburg c/o Durre Sharif
2101 North Front St.
Bldg. 3. Suite 301
Harrisburg, PA 17110
CWS Lancaster c/o Rachel Helwig
308 East King Street
Lancaster, PA 17602
Monetary Donations
Fundraising and loose plate offering collections can be sent to any refugee resettlement agency of your choice. Episcopal Migration Ministries offers this Refugee Sunday toolkit as a way to learn, pray, and act to support refugees. Some options include:
Ongoing Information
As this situation is rapidly evolving, we share these resources for ongoing information on the latest ways to get involved:
- How you can help from Episcopal Migration Ministries
- Immigration action toolkit from The Episcopal Church Office of Government Relations
- Diocesan Migration Ministry Resources
Legal Questions
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) Pennsylvania is one source for information about immigrants’ rights. Compass Immigration Legal Services is an organization local to Harrisburg that provides immigration legal services for immigrants, families, and business, and also offers informative workshops to non-profits and churches looking to learn more. If you have legal questions about supporting this ministry through your church, please contact the diocesan office to be connected with the diocesan Chancellor.
