The HIAS resettlement program in Maine has begun!

We were so pleased to welcome the JCA’s first Afghan refugee family through HIAS late last night, just before the snow. We are grateful that they are safe and warm here in Maine, and that we have the opportunity to be here for them in the days and weeks to come.

We know that many of you are excited to get involved and be a part of the resettlement process, and we need your help to spread awareness, assist with logistical needs, and raise funds to support the program. Our next family is due to arrive late next week; please visit our website for more information, to make a donation, or to sign up to volunteer.

Yesterday our Pre-K friends at the Goldman Family Preschool made a “Salaam” banner to bring to the family at the airport, on which one of the children wrote, “I will be a friend to you.” We are living in such difficult times, but not everything has to be complicated.

We welcome the stranger because it is a biblical injunction to do so, because we were once strangers in Egypt, because our own families were rescued in times of peril, because we believe all people deserve to live without fear. And also because we recognize that we each have the capacity to make a positive difference, to offer friendship and support to those in need.

Thank you for all you do to make our work possible. We wish you a restorative and fun snow-filled winter weekend.

Shabbat shalom!

Molly Curren Rowles
Executive Director