Faith in Action: Walking with Refugee Families in Chicago

Disciples in Mission continues to work with Exodus World Service (EWS) in its support of refugees in Chicago. Even though new refugees are not currently being accepted into the U.S., those who are already here receive services from EWS to support their economic and cultural transitions. Recently, we have been assisting with food and household supplies.

In one instance, EWS alerted us to a family that had experienced a theft and was struggling to afford groceries. Members of Disciples in Mission responded by supporting a Congolese multigenerational family of seven living in West Rogers Park. Using a grocery list provided by EWS—which included both needed and culturally preferred foods—we were able to obtain most of the items and deliver them to the family. They were so appreciative, they wanted to cook for us on the spot! As volunteers, we loved learning about another culture and “serving our neighbors” as Jesus has served us.

Additionally, EWS informed us of an Afghan family of eight in need of general household items. Members of Disciples in Mission obtained and delivered the requested items to the family, who welcomed us into their home and showed great kindness and appreciation by sharing their story. The father had worked as an interpreter for the U.S. government in Afghanistan. As part of their journey to the U.S., the family spent two years in Brazil during the vetting process. Remarkably, all their children have learned English in just six months. They are a loving family, proud of their heritage and deeply grateful for the opportunity to be in the United States.

If you have any questions about Disciples in Mission services, please email us at disciplesinmission@spc-church.org. You can also learn more about EWS at: https://exodusworldservice.org