What Can I Do To Help Our Neighbors?

“….I have the same feeling of helplessness that I’m sure so many in our Columbia community have: What can I do to help our neighbors?”

This email from a concerned citizen sits in my inbox, awaiting a response. I toss around a million possible drafts in my head, unsure that there’s really one answer to address such a heavy question. 

The truth is, the answer isn’t one big heroic act. It’s many small, steady ones. 

I, too, am unsettled – sad, confused, and burdened by the uncertainty. But I am not hopeless. 

We’ve never navigated waters like these before. And yet, our mission at City of Refuge remains steady: serving and empowering those who have resettled in mid-Missouri. It doesn’t mean that our needs won’t change on a dime, and it doesn’t mean that we aren’t preparing for a multitude of possibilities. But it does mean that today, we still have a clear way forward– a path laced with love, open arms, connection, and relationship. We may not be able to fix every policy or predict every outcome, but we can make sure families in Columbia are not alone.  

Every day at City of Refuge we are facing everyday reality: people putting one foot in front of the other, still making the most of the hand they’ve been dealt. 

Our refugee friends lead with resilience, modeling the very essence of working through impossibilities and finding hope on the other side. Not defeated. Not destroyed. One day at a time. 

We are motivated to do the same: to show up, to befriend, and to weather whatever storms may come our way so that we can continue to do this work for a long time to come. 

Like our inquirer, you may also be asking what you can do to help. And, truthfully, there are so many ways. 

In fact, our world needs people with exactly your skill set, experience, and passion. All of us bring something unique to the table and together we will rise up. 

We need advocates, friends, administrators, givers, leaders. We need people working quietly behind the scenes, and others who will make sure their voice is heard. We need generous hearts. We need people willing to connect across cultures and languages. We need kindness, humor, and love. We need fiery spirits who make things happen. We need peacemakers. We need the brave and the humble. 

We need people who are willing to show up. 

We need you. 

I can easily get caught up wondering if what I’m doing is enough. Is it big enough? Loud enough? Making enough of a difference? 

I’m reminded that some of the grandest acts of bravery and kindness are found in the smallest acts of selflessness and generosity. Reaching out to embrace rather than rejecting out of fear and the unknown.  

I’m reminded, too, of the impact that comes when we seek to befriend people from all backgrounds. Invite someone for coffee. Help a newcomer practice English. Offer a ride. Welcome a family at school. Get to know your child’s teammate’s family. 

Take the time to see, to acknowledge, to smile, to ask, to listen. 

To show up. 

And then do it again. 

And again.

Small acts of courage and generosity over time that eventually transform into real relationships. And relationships have the power to change us. 

Our sphere of influence can be powerful, meaningful, and transformational. And there are plenty of other ways to start small – both locally and nationally.

Ways to Help Right Now

• Stay informed and speak up for welcoming communities.

• Support our Basic Needs Closet: Gather some friends and help supply essential home & hygiene products to support individuals & families.

• Become a Monthly Donor: The federal grants that helped us scale up and support the growing need for our services are officially coming to an end soon. We are facing a $50,000/month gap. If just 1,000 people gave $50/month, we could continue serving and empowering refugees in our community. Will you consider joining our giving community, and inviting others to do the same?

• Join our Mailing List (or share our newsletter/blog with others): Stay up to date with all the information & exciting updates as they happen at City of Refuge by joining our newsletter. 

• Follow City of Refuge on Facebook and Instagram: stay up to date with all the events and news at City of Refuge!

• Turn What You Have Into Welcome: Simplify your life by donating your best things to City of Refuge. We are especially grateful for seasonal clothing in great condition. Donations may directly benefit a refugee family or be sold through City Boutique, where all proceeds support our services and programs. Our Donation Drop-off is open Monday-Thursday, 9am-1pm.

• Follow City Boutique on Facebook and Instagram: Bring some friends and enjoy a shopping day! All profits directly support our programs. Fridays often feature sales – follow along for the latest updates.

Thank you for caring enough to act. Together, we rise. 

Debbie Beal
Executive Director

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