Washington, D.C.—Church World Service today marked the inauguration of Donald J. Trump as the new President of the United States. The organization also honored the peaceful transfer of power that is a hallmark of our democracy. CWS calls on the new administration, as well as Congressional, state and local leaders to honor our nation’s legacy of standing alongside refugee and …
Honoring Dr. King’s Legacy: A Black History Month Reflection
January 18, 2025
Black History Month—and, in particular, Martin Luther King Jr. Day—holds profound significance for Black immigrants, serving as both a reflection on justice and a call to action. Inspired by Dr. King’s legacy, immigrants can honor his dream by advocating for equality, engaging in service, sharing their stories and standing in solidarity to create a more just and inclusive future. Martin …
Stories of Change
Top: Kevin leading a CROP Walk in Danville, Bottom: Kevin visiting CWS programs in Kenya
“Because They Walk”: Kevin McCoy’s Changemaker Journey
Kevin McCoy, Community Engagement Specialist for Fundraising at CWS, has dedicated 25 years to serving others. Through his work with CWS, Kevin has led and attended 300 CROP Hunger Walks, aligning his faith and values with a commitment to walk in solidarity with communities worldwide striving for basic necessities and a better future.
Discovering a Calling to Serve
Kevin McCoy, Community Engagement Specialist for Fundraising at CWS, has dedicated much of his life, including a cumulative 25 years at CWS, to making a difference in the lives of others. Coming from a family of helpers—including a nurse, a firefighter/EMT and a professor—Kevin’s passion for service was instilled early on. “For as long as I’ve lived, it’s been a part of my identity,” he shared.
Inspired by his father, Kevin studied Art History and later received his Master’s in Counseling. While his studies enriched him profoundly, he discovered his passion for serving others internationally when he volunteered for the Peace Corps in the Dominican Republic. During his volunteer work, Kevin was moved by the “hope and spirit” of the local communities, despite their daily challenges in accessing basic necessities. “That’s the kind of person I want to be,” he recalled, recognizing the profound impact of these experiences on his life’s direction.
Aligning Faith and Values at CWS
These experiences stayed with Kevin and eventually led him to CWS, where he discovered an intersection between his faith journey and his commitment to serving others. Kevin also recalls that he felt that his values were truly aligned with CWS, from its focus on inclusivity to how international programs are run by relying on and honoring the knowledge and expertise of locals. Since joining the team, he has had the opportunity to visit various programs in countries including Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nicaragua and, most recently, Kenya. Following each visit, Kevin returns to the United States with in-depth first-hand knowledge of our programs, which allows him to invigorate the CROP Hunger Walks he leads.
Walking in Solidarity through CWS CROP Walks
While it’s impossible to know how many CROP Hunger Walks Kevin has attended since joining CWS, we estimate it’s somewhere in the 300s. Kevin shared that he has seen participants as young as babies in strollers and individuals as old as 100 years old, showcasing the multigenerational initiative and impact of the walks. In his work, Kevin has resonated with the slogan often used by CROP Hunger Walkers: “We walk because they walk.” He added, “People around the world have to walk every day for their basic necessities, whether that’s food, water, shelter or just to get to safety; they’re walking, and they’re going through these struggles. And here in the U.S., we can walk with them in solidarity.”
A Widespread Impact Towards Good
Aside from the influence Kevin has had on our programs, Kevin’s kind and positive demeanor has also left an impact on his colleagues. Nick Gliha, who has worked closely with Kevin on CWS’ Fundraising team, remarks Kevin as a “master storyteller” and shared, “He’s great with kids, with seniors and with welcoming new staff and acclimating them to CWS’ mission.” Each conversation with Kevin is underlined by a welcoming nature and the clear revelation of the passion and dedication that has guided him throughout his life.
In his 25 years at CWS, Kevin has become a bridge between those who need a helping hand and those who can provide it. In every step he’s taken, Kevin continues to honor the journeys of those walking for a better life, reminding us all that the path toward change is one we must walk together.
Kevin McCoy has been recognized by Church World Service as a CWS Changemaker. This campaign is a celebration of the broad community of long-time volunteers, program partners, staff and donors who allow CWS work to be possible. You can learn more about CWS Changemakers by clicking here. To learn more and find a CROP Hunger Walk near you, click here.
TAKE ACTION: Tell Your Elected Leaders to Welcome Refugees and Safeguard Humanitarian Protection
January 15, 2025
As we prepare for President-elect Donald Trump to take office in January, it is more important than ever for all of our elected officials to hear that their communities welcome refugees. Refugee resettlement saves lives, encourages other countries to keep their doors open to people needing protection, and promotes regional stability and global security. We cannot turn our backs on the refugees …
CWS Celebrates Protections for Migrants from El Salvador, Venezuela, Ukraine, and Sudan—Calls for Continued Access to Safety
January 10, 2025
Washington, D.C.—Church World Service today commends the Biden administration’s decision to extend Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for people from El Salvador, Venezuela, Ukraine, and Sudan. Secretary Mayorkas of the Department of Homeland Security announced an eighteen month extension for individuals in the U.S. from all four countries, potentially impacting over 900,000 people.CWS has long supported TPS designations for countries facing …
Stories of Change
Community members of the Saint James AME church receive CWS Kits and Blankets
Saint James AME Church: A Legacy of Warmth, Resilience and Care
A Rich History of Community
For nearly 160 years, the Saint James AME Church in Live Oak, Florida, has been a fundamental haven in the community. Before African Americans were allowed to go to school or worship freely, they gathered in this sacred space. Today, the church continues to serve as both a place of worship and a source of generosity and kindness.
“We’re one of the smaller churches, but we have a rich, rich history,” shared Pastor Marvin Bouquette. The church hosts various initiatives throughout the year to build community, from school supply giveaways to Easter egg hunts and family fun days.
Coming Together to Support Eachother
The sense of community fostered by Saint James AME Church has become a lifeline in times of need. This was especially true when Hurricane Helene hit Live Oak, Florida, this past September. The rural city of fewer than 7,000 people lost electricity and access to water in the aftermath of the storm.
As part of the network of churches that Church World Service (CWS) supports, Saint James AME Church partnered with the CWS Kits and Blankets program to care for its members and neighbors after the hurricane.
Delivering Hope with CWS Kits and Blankets
“With the partnership, we distributed to about 200 people and not just within the four walls of the church,” Pastor Marvin recalled. The church used social media, mass texting, and phone tree systems to ensure the community knew about the distribution.
The response was overwhelming. “The number of people who showed up was mind-boggling,” said Pastor Marvin. People were particularly surprised by the quality of the items they received. “A lot of the times when things are donated, they’re not the best quality, but these heavyweight and lightweight blankets—people love them,” he added.
Extending Help Beyond Church Walls
The distribution extended beyond Saint James AME Church. The church reached out to seven other churches in the area, ultimately supporting about 500 people. Reflecting on the community’s resilience, Pastor Marvin stated, “We make do, and CWS coming in and donating those items allowed us to say, ‘We may not be able to give you electricity right now, but here are some items that can provide comfort.’”
One of the most appreciated items in the CWS Kits was the Period Packs. These packs were in high demand and were the first to run out. Recognizing the importance of these products, a local school administrator took some back to ensure students also had access to them.
The feminine hygiene products in these packs not only provide necessary care but also send a powerful message—reminding individuals with periods that their needs matter, even during a disaster.
An Expression Gratitude
Pastor Marvin extended his gratitude to those who support the CWS Kits and Blankets program. “There’s a lot of work that goes into these Kits, so on behalf of Saint James AME Church and the Live Oak community, thank you.”
From the compassionate hands that build the Kits to the generous ones that distribute them, CWS Kits and Blankets remain a powerful source of comfort. They connect communities and remind us all of the importance of caring for one another in times of need.
To support individuals affected by recent hurricanes, please consider donating to our disaster response fund. You can learn more about CWS’ Emergency Preparedness, Response and Recovery work by clicking here and you can get involved in our Kits and Blankets Program here.
Sonya Funna Evelyn, Sam Worthington Join CWS Board of Directors
Sonya Funna Evelyn, Sam Worthington Join CWS Board of Directors New York City – Church World Service today announced that it has welcomed two new members to its Board of Directors, Sonya Funna Evelyn and Sam Worthington. Each of these leaders brings decades of experience related to CWS’ mission of building a world where everyone has food, voice and a …
Stories of Change
Top: Bethlehem on Broad Street coordinator Jim Lowe Middle: CWS Kits Bottom: Woman holding CWS Blanket
CWS Kits and Blankets Bring Warmth and Hope to Ohio Communities
CWS Blanket and Kit donations have provided warmth and essential support to Ohio communities facing record cold and power outages. The generosity of donors, local shelters and events like Bethlehem on Broad Street have offered comfort, hope and vital supplies to those in need during winter’s harshest challenges.
During the harsh winter days, the generosity of CWS Blanket and Kit donors has provided critical relief to those in need across central and southern Ohio. With record-breaking cold and widespread power outages, many found themselves seeking refuge in local warming shelters. Thanks to donations from Church World Service supporters, these shelters were able to offer warm blankets and essential hygiene kits to their guests.
Warmth Amid Winter’s Challenges
“This winter storm was devastating, and many people lost electricity, leaving them no choice but to move to a warming center,” said Matthew Stevens, Director of Congregational Campaigns at CWS. “Because of the generous donors from Church World Service, the guests in these shelters received warm blankets and hygiene items, bringing comfort in difficult times.”
One of the recipients of CWS Blankets was Bethlehem on Broad Street (BOBS), an ecumenical Christmas Day event in Columbus, Ohio, that serves hundreds of people in need. Jim and Gail Lowe, coordinators of BOBS, expressed their deep gratitude for the donations.
Gratitude from Local Leaders
“I can’t say thank you enough to Church World Service for providing these blankets and hygiene kits for our community,” Jim said. “So many people are in need of extra warmth during the winter, and these blankets are perfect.”
In addition to their event, Jim and Gail distributed blankets to local warming shelters and organizations supporting unhoused individuals and families. Gail noted, “It’s so heartwarming to know that on these extremely cold days, people can stay warm thanks to the love and care behind these donations.”
The impact of these gifts stretches far beyond physical warmth, reminding those in need that they are not alone. CWS donors continue to bring hope and compassion to communities facing winter’s harshest challenges.
To learn how you can contribute CWS Blankets to our neighbors who need them most, click here.
Emergency Appeal: California Wildfires
January 8, 2025
Updated: February 6, 2025 Appeal Code: 6291 Situation: Wildfires across Los Angeles County have surged overnight, prompting mandatory evacuation orders for over 200,000 residents with more than 700 people taking refuge in nine shelters, as powerful Santa Ana winds exacerbate the crisis. As of Wednesday, January 22, 2025, approximately 34,000 individuals were still under evacuation orders. California Governor Gavin Newsom …
Stories of Change
Andrea Flores at the CWS Houston office
“We Are the Light”: How Caseworker Andrea Flores Has Become a Light to Unaccompanied Children
This staff spotlight story features Andrea Flores, a caseworker in our Houston office for our Home Study and Post Release Services program. Andrea talks about her responsibilities in her role as well as her personal connection and passion for her work.
The gentle warmth of CWS HSPRS Caseworker, Andrea Flores, is often the first sign of welcome a recently arrived child experiences. This warmth extends beyond Andrea’s sweet personality and into Andrea’s passion and motivation for her work with unaccompanied children. “I would like to be part of their new journey by providing comfort and support so they can remember that there are people who care about them no matter what,” Andrea shared.
From Honduras to the United States: Andrea’s Journey to Helping Her Community
Originally from Honduras, Andrea was initially unsure about moving to the United States because she felt she could have a greater impact by serving her community in her own country. “I wanted to live in my country and work for my people, but my dad once told me, ‘If you want to help your people, it is not necessary to be in Honduras; you can be over there and help them.’ I ended up here in the United States helping my people, which is why I really value this job,” she stated.
Connecting with Children Through Shared Culture
In her role, Andrea brings a unique perspective since she shares the same home country as many of the children she serves. She explained that because she knows the culture, she better understands why these children come to the United States and what type of information and support they need. “If these minors are from very poor communities, sometimes they only study until sixth grade. If they want to go to high school, they have to travel to another city which is a major cost with transportation and rent and is too much for these families. They are used to working. After sixth grade, everyone works in the poor communities so they’re used to it. That’s why here in the U.S. I have to remind them, ‘That’s not right, you need to go to school,’” Andrea told us, adding that many of these children also flee their country to escape gang violence.
Becoming the “Light” for Unaccompanied Children
Before arriving in the United States five years ago, Andrea didn’t know about organizations like CWS that support these vulnerable children. Now, Andrea sees these organizations as a crucial source for families and children to get access to the information they need to become successful members of their new communities. “We are the light, in a way,” she said.
Since she began working at CWS, Andrea has been able to see many of her clients progress in their new homes. Some of her favorite moments have been when she receives videos from her clients of teachers giving them awards for good performance in school. These videos give Andrea hope that they are on the right path to a safe and fulfilling life in the United States.
When asked what message she would share with unaccompanied children seeking a new home in the United States, Andrea became emotional, saying, “Don’t worry. If you are here in the United States, there are people who really care about you.” Driven by her passion and desire to make an impact, Andrea is committed to making sure she is this person for the clients she serves every day.
You can learn more about the CWS Houston office and how you can support our programs by clicking here.