Blog

Family and the Power of Support

December 19, 2024

Through the hardships of war, the loss of loved ones and the challenges of resettling in a new country, the finds hope and healing through community support, resilience and love. My parents, may Allah have mercy on them, were the foundation of my strength and optimism. My father always encouraged us to help others, often saying: “Life is like a …

Upholding Humanitarian Leadership: Priorities for Funding Refugee Support in 2025

December 18, 2024

As the new administration prepares to take office, Congress has an important role to play in setting a clear vision and upholding the United States’ long legacy of welcoming refugee newcomers and others fleeing violence and persecution. The final work period of the 118th Congress, known as the “Lame Duck Session,” is the last opportunity for current leaders to pass …

Visiting the Darien Gap: A Look Beyond the Border

Abbey Combs |

Trigger warning: This article mentions instances of sexual and gender-based violence.  As our bus made its way deeper into the jungle, now seven hours from Panama City, I looked out the window to see an archway welcoming us to the Darién. It was November 12, 2024, just days after U.S. election results were announced. I was traveling with faith leaders …

A Journey to Mutual Learning: Stories of Resilience in Latin America

Monica Arango | December 13, 2024

When Jorge was just a child, he suffered an accident in the midst of a hurricane and lost his hearing. Over time, he adapted to his new life, and years later, formed a beautiful family. Unfortunately, in November 2020, Hurricanes Eta and Iota destroyed the house where he lived with his wife and two-year-old-baby in Honduras. His dreams seemed to …

“We Continue to Hope That One Day We Will Return”

December 12, 2024

The following blog was written by a program participant of CWS’ local Moldovan partner, Healthy City. Healthy City, also known as Zdorovii Gorod, supports Ukrainian refugees by providing comprehensive services including food and non-food items, social inclusion and psychosocial support.  We are a family of five—mom, dad and three children—from the beautiful Ukrainian city of Vinnytsia. Before the war, we …