Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate community, friendship, and blessings. It is a time to share your table and laughter with those you hold dear to your heart. One of the many objectives of the Refugee Resettlement Program here at Catholic Charities is to help facilitate a successful transition into American culture for the people we serve. Though this goal is multifaceted, it can take many forms. So, in keeping with tradition, on November 23, 2019, Catholic Charities welcomed 193 community members to join us in breaking bread, sharing our traditions, and enjoying several activities.
With the help of over 43 volunteers from several organizations such as Bishop John J. Snyder High School, Assumption Middle School, St. Matthew’s Church, Northeast Florida Returned Peace Corps Volunteers, AmeriCorps Members, University of Florida students, and Catholic Charities staff, we were able to share the spirit of Thanksgiving with the refugee families we work hard to help every day. Thanks to these vibrant, dedicated, and hardworking volunteers who donated their time, talent, and food, we were able to host several events such as face painting, games, and crafts. Moreover, in appreciation of our different cultures, our talented clients and our very own Refugee Choir preformed several heart-felt traditional songs and dances like Manau from the Kachin Tribe of Burma. This year’s annual Thanksgiving Potluck was a celebration of culture--not only American but also our clients’ native culture in striving to be a true embodiment of the American “Melting Pot” metaphor.
Have you ever wanted to learn more about our Refugee Programs? Let us know, you can email info@ccbjax.org.