Religious Education and Social Justice are joining together to collect gently used shoes and clothes for three Guatemalan families that we have supported in various ways over the last four years.
Don’t have any gently used hand-me-downs? Consider donating cash/check to help us purchase these items.
Bring to the Religious Education Table on the patio after services or drop off in the church office weekdays before 4:00 pm.
Questions? recommittee@uufsd.org
HISTORY OF UUFSD INVOLVEMENT WITH THREE GUATEMALAN FAMILIES
UUFSD was first introduced to the SJA Group in March 2018. Irv Himelblau was contacted by Ocean Knoll Elementary School in Encinitas. They wanted to know if we could provide material support to three families who were seeking asylum. At the time, there were eight children (and some cousins). They needed everything! We were able to fundraise at the Fellowship and raised over $3000.00!
We used these funds and other resources for a long time, providing the following:
• Connected the families with Jewish Family Service immigration attorneys who helped two of the three families.
• Asked for congregational support for donations via winter holiday GivingTree drives.
• Provided emergency funds during times of severe crisis.
• Provided emergency diapers, food, and furniture.
• Provided emotional support.
During this time, one of the fathers was deported due to a domestic violence charge, which left one mother with 4 children and no income. Another father is currently in Mexico and unable to cross the border.
While these families continue to struggle financially, they are loving parents who are very protective of their kids, who range in age from 1 to 17, including a set of 1 year old twins, (now 10 children). All but three are in school.
While we are planning another GivingTree this December, the children have an immediate need for very gently used shoes and clothing.
We hope you can help! Here are the needs:
Posted by Susan Hahm