HOUSTON – We haven’t seen an influx of Ukrainian refugees here in the US just yet, but based on the history of this country and the city of Houston, refugee advocates say we can expect them to come.
At Interfaith Ministries for Greater Houston, they’re ready to welcome refugees with open arms.
”Ukrainians, they are in need right now. They are in need for our prayers, for our support,” said Chief Programs Officer for Interfaith Ministries Ali Al Sudani. “They are not here yet, but if they come, we need to raise our voice. We need to be mindful that they might come, and if they come we need the help from all of our community.”
As an Iraqi war refugee, Al Sudani knows first hand what it’s like to flee conflict.
”It actually brings some flashbacks,” he said. “I came from Iraq in 2009 through Interfaith Ministries.”
Like other groups that’ve resettled in Houston, Al Sudani plans to help Ukrainians who come here find food, jobs and shelter through the organization.
”You go through the background check, and you start your own life here,” Al Sudani added.
Other organizations like the American Jewish Committee are advocating to congress for refugees to be able to come to the United States. Regional Director, Randy Czarlinsky says the Family Reunification Program is one gateway.
”Families from Ukraine whether they’re Jewish, Christian, whatever their faith is, could be eligible for family reunification here in the United States,” Czarlinsky said.
The timeline for a potential inpouring of Ukrainian Refugees in the United States is unclear, but Al Sudani wants them to know they are welcome.
”I really feel for these families when I see them,” Al Sudani said.
He adds the most important belonging a refugee should have is identification.
To get in contact with Interfaith Ministries click here.
To contact the American Jewish Committee visit their website.