Who is a Refugee?

“Refugee” is a legal term given to anyone who is unable or unwilling to return to their home country because of a well-founded fear of persecution based on their race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or social group. Currently, there are over 19 million refugees scattered throughout the world.

Once forced to flee their homeland, refugees often gather in refugee camps waiting for an opportunity to return to their homes. Some remain isolated in these camps for months, years, and even generations, while others wander throughout neighboring countries, unable to be granted citizenship or sometimes even basic human rights. However, some refugees are granted legal admission into a country of refuge (such as the United States), and gradually rebuild their lives in a new nation.

When a refugee family arrives to the area, LCFS is responsible for gathering available resources, finding housing and employment, and providing general cultural orientation. We also encourage and depend upon local churches and civic organizations to become involved in welcoming these newcomers to our community. As we reach out to these vulnerable families, we extend the message of Christ’s love to them and learn from each other in the process.