These individuals have undergone tremendous difficulties and are starting over in a new country and culture. While there are organizations that help them with a place to live and may even offer basic necessities, what they need is a friend and ally who can help them acclimate. Could you:
- Be a sincere friend
- Reach out to people on the periphery
- Take a stand against intolerance
- Promote compassion and understanding
- Make a visit
- Get to know first hand what is really needed; don’t assume
- Learn about the food, holidays, and traditions of others
- Share a meal
- Celebrate a holiday together
- Invite someone to join your family night
- Teach a new skill
- Learn a new skill
- Make introductions
- Ask questions
- Exchange ideas and experiences
- Highlight strengths in other cultures
- Speak to your town council about needed services
- Forgive ofenses or misunderstandings and try again
- Shop at locally owned businesses
- Welcome new people to the neighborhood
- Volunteer to teach a language
- Defend others from bigotry
- Learn kids’ names
- Learn a sport
- Teach a sport
- Offer employment to someone unexpected
- Visit people who are ill
- Teach each other songs and jokes
- Extend an invitation to a cultural event
- Offer to babysit
- Give a ride
- Practice interviewing for a job
- Donate household goods
- Help children study
- Act as a grandma or grandpa to someone whose family is far away
- Volunteer with a local organization whose work you admire
- Be a mentor
- Find local solutions rather than relying on bureaucratic programs or funds
- Recognize that time and relationships are more valuable than things
- Don’t hesitate to follow the promptings of the Holy Spirit
Download PDF: 40 Ways to Help