The Union for Equity and Health, CWS’s local partner, provides psychological, social and medical assistance to people in Moldova. Written by one program participant, this blog shares her family’s experience fleeing Ukraine and finding refuge and medical support in Moldova. Fleeing Zaporizhzhia for the Unknown My name is Irina Gerasimova. I’m 66 years old, a pensioner and widow from Zaporizhzhia. On February 8, 2023, my son Andrey and I were …
From Mariupol to Moldova: A Family’s Journey Through Displacement and Recovery
The Union for Equity and Health, CWS’s local partner, provides psychological, social and medical assistance to people in Moldova. Written by one program participant, this blog shares his experience of fleeing war in Ukraine, finding refuge in Moldova and navigating health challenges. Finding Refuge in Moldova My wife, son, and I lived in Mariupol, Ukraine. We worked there and had our own home. We had everything …
Finding Hope in Challenging Times: Reflections from the Virtual Integration Services Team
Nandini Sridhar | December 18, 2025
Season’s greetings from CWS’s Virtual Integration Services (VIS) Team! We hope that this season of hope finds you well and that you are able to spend meaningful time with family and friends. Here at VIS, we have been reflecting on all of the challenges and successes in the last year and are grateful for your companionship this season. VIS supporting Emergency Response On January 24th, The US State Department halted resettlement programs and sent a …
Ending 2025 with Hope: Your Impact Through CWS Kits and Blankets
December 17, 2025
In a year marked by global hunger and devastating disasters, CWS supporters brought light and hope to communities in need. Together, you provided more than 141,000 essential supplies, helping families rebuild, stay safe and know they are not alone. This year, our neighbors have faced extraordinary challenges. Across the globe, 318 million people are entering the new year at crisis levels of hunger In the Caribbean, communities …
Winter in Ukraine: Responding to Rising Food Insecurity on the Frontlines
December 12, 2025
As Ukraine braces for another harsh winter, food insecurity is surging—especially in frontline areas where conflict, inflation and energy poverty collide. CWS is committed to walking alongside vulnerable communities, ensuring access to food and dignity in the face of growing hardship. A Perfect Storm: Conflict, Inflation and Cold In Ukraine’s frontline oblasts, the convergence of war, economic instability and seasonal hardship is …
Winter Ready: Staying Prepared for the Season Ahead
December 5, 2025
As winter approaches, the season brings both joy and hidden dangers. From icy roads to rising heating costs, understanding the risks and preparing ahead can help families stay safe and resilient. Understanding Winter Risks As the weather turns colder, families around the country prepare for all the joy and excitement that winter holds. From holiday celebrations to cozy treats, the new season …
“The Road Is Made By Walking”: An Encouraging Re-Encounter
Rick Santos | December 2, 2025
During a recent trip to Moldova, Rick Santos, President and CEO of Church World Service, reflected on finding hope through the resilience of refugees and communities served by CWS, including Natalia, a Ukrainian refugee whose journey of giving continues to inspire. Pictured above: Natalia poses with her children, reflecting joy and resilience in Moldova. Discovering Hope in Moldova In today’s …
16 Days of Activism: Stand Against Gender-based Violence and Support Immigrant Survivors
November 25, 2025
During the 16 Days of Activism to End Gender‑Based Violence, CWS highlights the growing barriers immigrant survivors face in the United States—from restricted asylum access to loss of vital services—and calls on allies to take action in solidarity to protect their rights and safety. Immigrant Survivors Face Growing Barriers to Safety and Justice November 25 commemorates the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against …
Responding to Hunger in Kasai Centrale: CWS Emergency Action
November 20, 2025
CWS is responding to acute food insecurity in Kasai Centrale, Democratic Republic of Congo, where the entire province is experiencing a crisis-level classification of hunger. Through emergency cash transfers and market‑based support, CWS is helping families in Kazumba Territory survive the lean season and build resilience. Understanding Food Insecurity in Kasai Centrale Kasai Centrale, a province in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), is experiencing one …
Neighbors, Not Enemies: Remembering Injustice and Resisting Its Return
Kimiko Hirota | November 13, 2025
In this powerful reflection, CWS’s Associate Director of Policy, Kimiko Hirota, recounts her experience at the 2025 Crystal City Pilgrimage, drawing connections between her family’s history and the renewed use of the Alien Enemies Act under the Trump administration. As immigrant communities face mass detention and deportation today, she calls on Americans to remember past injustices and resist their return …