January 30, 2025
Six weeks ago I shared the story of how my connection to City of Refuge led to the miraculous occasion that I was able to help sponsor and welcome Mugisha, a Congolese refugee living with limited possibilities in Kenya. Since then I’ve heard from countless folks who were moved by the story asking me how things were going for him.
Mugisha is now a dear friend of mine and my family. He is bright, kind, optimistic, and friendly. We feel deeply grateful that he came into our lives this way, and we know he will benefit our entire community through his presence.
With his blessing (Mugisha means “blessing” in Kinyarwanda, by the way!), I am happy to share some updates that also highlight some of the opportunities and services we provide here at City of Refuge.
On his first day after his arrival, we were able to visit our clothing closet where he found some warm clothes (he saw snow for the first time the day he arrived!)
We also gathered some forms we needed to fill out from one of our care coordinators, Emili.
Within a week I realized I didn’t understand how to fill out some of the forms, so JJ, another care coordinator, helped us with that.
Mugisha wanted to apply to attend Moberly Area Community College(MACC) this summer to get into a nursing program and work as an assistant in the meantime. After an interview with a very helpful Chief Nurse at a local hospital, Mugisha decided to apply to begin a certified nursing assistant program. Much of the course would be online, so Mugisha used our computer lab to work on his typing skills and to study for the Accuplacer test he would need to take before he could begin classes.
He also met with our career empowerment specialist, Eraste, who helped him clarify his educational goals, and has helped us in our communications with MACC.
While Mugisha is settling in great in Columbia, transportation remains a challenge! Fortunately he was given study materials in multiple languages as well as advice from VV, our driving program coordinator.
Despite never having driven before, he passed his permit test in his first try, and is now learning to drive in part using our driving simulator with help from a volunteer, Ken.
Of course, all of Columbia has been welcoming. He has been welcomed into a church community here where he has just started as a Sunday School teacher, he has a job as a CNA lined up as soon as he completes his training, and everyone from secretaries to advisors to the technology specialist at MACC has made him feel welcome and comfortable. Whatever the future holds, he knows that with the support from our community, City of Refuge will be there for him every step of the way.
Aaron Finkel
Community Partner Coordinator
Looking to build positive habits this year? City of Refuge can help! We are looking for compassionate and reliable volunteers to assist with transportation for our programs! You’ll be driving participants in a City of Refuge vehicle, with both morning and evening time slots available. Join us in making a difference—your help can change lives!
The Basic Needs Closet is a way that City of Refuge can fill immediate needs. Whether waiting for a paycheck to come in or an unexpected expense, being able to supplement basic hygiene or household items makes a big difference. We are currently low on SHAMPOO and BODY WASH. Grab an extra bottle while you’re at the store and drop it off to our building or shop our Amazon wishlist which ships directly to us.
Score a touchdown TODAY at our 50% off everything sale at City Boutique. Open Monday-Friday from 9:00AM-4:00PM we are constantly restocking with unique treasures at a great price. Follow us on social media for updates on inventory and sale dates.
