July 10, 2019
Ways to Help Children & Families at the Border
*Print out the image at left to share with your congregation.

*Please note that congregations and individuals are NOT allowed to send toothbrushes, clothes, or other items directly into the government facilities that have recently received criticism.

*However, be sure to go to: bit.ly/help4fams for more information about specific ways to engage in advocacy, as well as direct support for shelters already assisting migrants.

*Keep giving to Week of Compassion to strengthen our Disciples’ efforts to support shelters receiving hundreds of new asylum seekers daily.

*Do not neglect to ADVOCATE as advised in the alert. It is POLICIES that are holding children in unsafe conditions, and our faith voices are desperately needed to weigh in about our values, to help CHANGE them!
Also, watch SOON for a Sign On "Word to the Church Letter against Children and Families in Detention," currently being drafted. The letter will be released before General Assembly, and will be shared at, and in the two weeks following, the Assembly to gather signatures.

If you are coming to General Assembly, PLAN TO ATTEND a “Candlelight Vigil for Children Detained and Who Died in Custody,” on SUNDAY NIGHT, 10 p.m., to be held in the Governor Robert D. Ray Asian Garden, 700 Robert D. Ray Drive, Des Moines--just across the street and bridge from the Convention Center.  Join together as Disciples to remember and pray for families grieving the loss of their migrant children who were seeking protection in the U.S. Light candles and pray together for grace-filled solutions to the ongoing humanitarian crisis faced by migrant children and families.

Also, don't forget to attend the "Refugee Simulation" and Refugee Discussions, to be held Sunday afternoon from 1:30-4:30 in Hyvee Hall A!. You can login to your GA registration to indicate your interest to attend. OR, let us know by going here: https://forms.gle/HXk3TFCBEUAShnLQ8
Follow Disciples Refugee & Immigration Ministries on Twitter @StanleyRea, and on FB at: http://bit.ly/RIMFacebook, and call Rev. Dr. Sharon Stanley-Rea, Director, Disciples Refugee & Immigration Ministries, with any questions: 202-957-7826.
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