Refugee Sponsorship Update – October 2022

 

Left: Elevantina, Emmanuel, Joshwa, & Jackson

Right: Pacifica & Gadi

A lot has happened since our last update with our Congolese refugee family who arrived July 15 in Lancaster, from a Ugandan Refugee Camp. They moved into permanent housing in Lancaster City. The 2 oldest, Pacific & Gadi, started school at Lafayette Elementary. Joshwa, 3 years old and Jackson, 7 months are home with mom, Elevantina.

Both parents are working on their English via Zoom ESL classes and daily life interactions. Dad, Emmanuel started a full time job in October and Elevantina’s family of 10 have joined them in Lancaster. The families live closely to each other. The second family is being sponsored by a different church, but we are in contact to share information.

It’s been very busy, at times demanding, but lovely working with and getting to know the family.

It’s been a huge learning curve for both the family and us! The only thing we weren’t prepared for was all the paperwork!

Some of you have asked how you might help, so we’ve created a document with ongoing family needs (Items for Ombeni Family). This will be updated periodically with non-time-sensitive items. Please contact Steph – SJSantiago91@gmail.com or Marian – marian.joyce@gmail.com with the subject line – Ombeni Donations. Special thanks to the Art & Selma Walter’s Trust for helping us sponsor this family.