REFUGEE RESETTLEMENT

Central is partnering with Bethany Christian Services, a global nonprofit organization, whose mission calls them to demonstrate the love and compassion of Jesus Christ by protecting and enhancing the lives of children and families around the world. The Refugee Resettlement program assists displaced families in the process of resettling in West Michigan. These families go through a rigorous screening process including an interview, medical examinations and security checks.

Bethany is able to offer services to resettle families for up to three months. During this period, much supplemental support and care is needed from churches in order to help achieve self-sufficiency. After this three month period, Employment services can continue up to three years, and church co-sponsors continue to provide needed love and support. Central is also working alongside Heights of Hope, a non-profit, inter- denominational Christian community development organization dedicated to working together with area churches to improve the Holland Heights neighborhood and empower people to strengthen their lives. All programming by Heights of Hope is an outwork of Asset Based Community Development (ABCD) – a process of community self- mobilization for change. Our most distinguishing feature is that our workers live right in the Stratford/Abbey neighborhood, building a strong sense of community and involvement in the neighborhood. The effect of their work is systemic, impacting individual families. Six goals that guide Heights of Hope’s work are: Developing a strong “Sense of Community” People experiencing the love of God People empowered to improve socio-economic well being Youth able to realize their full potential Church members and community members engaging in life together A self-sustaining organization

Contact missions@centralwesleyan.org for more information and to become involved.