The IWC, based in New Franklin Ohio, has requested an opportunity to present information about its mission to members of Faith Lutheran Church. To accommodate this, we have scheduled the time between services on Sunday, August 11, for representatives from IWC to share time with us. The library is being reserved for this event.
The IWC website is: https://theiwc.org Here is an overview of their work:
The International Welcome Center exists to empower the foreign-born in the greater Akron area in their pursuit of happiness. As representatives of Christ, we partner with them to legally navigate the immigration system and integrate into the community through the power of love, service, and friendship. The International Welcome Center was originally built for Day 91, the day after federal assistance ends for refugees. Then, the International Welcome Center steps in to assist and close gaps for refugees and immigrants with urgent resettlement needs – essentially helping them with turning a house into their home, learning conversational English, driving and receiving affordable legal services. In fact, we are the only faith-based Department of Justice- accredited organization in Summit County that can offer legal services at half (or less) than the cost of an immigration lawyer. If foreign-born individuals and families can find a place that feels like home, learn English, have transportation, and stay on the legal pathway to citizenship, they have what they need to pursue their dream of happiness and hope in the United States. We serve families settling in the greater Akron area.
The International Welcome Center recently was approved to expand our affiliation with World Relief to begin resettling refugees in the Greater Akron area through the federal Reception and Placement Program. We are beginning to welcome refugees on Day 1 of their arrival to the United States. Prior to their arrival, a team of volunteers and the International Welcome Center staff will be coordinating and securing housing & furnishings, food and other needed items as well as providing a culturally appropriate meal to fully welcome families on Day 1.
