Serve Burlington’s “On Call” Refugee Move-In Crew is now in action.  Last Wednesday we moved a family of seven in.  Later today we’re moving in a family of eight.  With over 300 refugees from Nepal alone expected in 2012, we’ll have plenty more opportunities to serve our brand new neighbors. 

If you’ve ever been curious “who is a refugee?” below is the definition found on the Vermont Refugee Resettlement Program’s website:

A refugee is someone who has been forced to flee his or her country because of persecution, war, or violence.  A refugee has a well-founded fear of persecution for reasons of race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.  Refugees differ from other immigrants in that they do not have the choice to remain in their home country.  Refugees flee their countries to save their lives.

It’s easy to see how this act of service is a huge blessing to these families and the hard working staff of the Vermont Refugee Resettlement Program.  We presently have 45 on our “on-call” email list, with a goal of 100.  Since we usually get anywhere from two days to one week’s notice, this will insure we can recruit a team of 5 or 6 regardless of the time or day.

If you live near Burlington and are interested in more info on how you can get involved, just leave a comment on this post.