THE TORCH: News & Updates

November 24 | 2021

Refugee Program: Underway

We thank so many of our partners, individuals, and congregations for their willingness to help as the URC prepares to receive arriving families from Afghanistan. Please allow this very short notice of update and gratitude on this day before Thanksgiving.

AFGHAN PLACEMENT ASSISTANCE IN SJCo

The URC has received final approval from the US State Department and the Office of Refugee Resettlement (HHS) to help approximately 30 individuals to relocate to 'Greater South Bend.' As this is written on Weds, Nov 24, we anticipate receiving the backgrounds of our newly arriving neighbors, and travel 'windows.' It is important to note that we anticipate many arrivals before the end of December or in early January, 2022.

Many congregations, some with long experiences in this work and some ready to jump in and learn, have offered to help. Our RESET Committee will be going over the information, and we invite your input via our website (there is a page for more info that we will be updating as events require).

THANKS, IN ADVANCE, for your engagement and support!

EMERGENCY RENTAL ASSISTANCE

Deadline Removed!

The URC Advocacy Center has provided over $475,000 in help from the Emergency Rent Assistance (ERA) Program since March, 2021. This is in addition to funds provided by member congregations, including a special grant from the Islamic Society of Michiana, and grants from the United Way COVID Relief Fund and Heat for Homes.

PLEASE HELP friends, family, and congregants to apply; here is the site:

https://sjcindiana.communityos.org/initial-tenant