We are all watching the news from Afghanistan with deep distress. We worry about the safety and future of ALL Afghans as the Taliban takes control of their homeland.
Members of the Micah community have been reaching out to Sukkat Shalom, asking how they can help, and specifically asking about the Afghan family that Temple Micah helped resettle in 2017. We have been in active communication with the family, and have been working to support them and their loved ones in Afghanistan in any way we can.
Given the situation in Afghanistan and the ongoing immigration crisis at the U.S./Mexico border — another immediate priority for Sukkat Shalom — the work of Sukkat Shalom has never been more urgent. We invite you to join us in this important work.
If you would like to learn more about our ongoing efforts to support Afghan families and help us plan for what’s next, CLICK HERE.
Our Sukkat Shalom Leadership Team, including Rabbi Crawley, has robust and ongoing partnerships with a number of resettlement agencies. We are working with them to find ways that Sukkat Shalom can help.
The situation is changing quickly. If you want to help these agencies right away, below you will find information to help you do that.
AGENCY WEB PAGES
HIAS. This webpage outlines a number of ways to get involved. This resource includes a registration link for an upcoming HIAS briefing at 4 pm ET on August 23, advocacy opportunities, and information regarding legal options for loved ones currently trapped in Afghanistan or who are in the process of fleeing.
LIRS. This webpage will take you to a page where you can sign up for specific activities (apartment set-up, airport pick-up, meal assistance, etc). Relatedly, LSS has this webpage for additional activities in the DMV area, including a 7pm ET town hall on August 26.
Solutions in Hometown Connections, a local organization focused on assisting refugee communities, and in particular the resettled Afghan community, is creating “welcome teams” and developing other ways to support the community. Email Merritt Groeschel (merritt@shconnections.org) for more information and to sign up.
Thank you for your support and concern. As we approach these High Holy Days, let us try to ensure that all are written into the Book of Life. This is our moral obligation.
Your Sukkat Shalom Leadership Team
sukkatshalom@templemicah.org