Asylum Seekers in Need of Coats, Jackets, Shoes and Boots
New Buses From Texas Expected to Arrive in Philadelphia on New Year’s Eve

As we are in the midst of the 12 Days of Christmas, we remember the difficult journeys that Joseph and Mary undertook. Both the Gospels of Matthew and Luke show us the dangers and challenges they faced as Mary gave birth to Jesus. God guided them away from danger into places of abundance and care.

Like Mary and Joseph, there are many in our world who are seeking safety and security for their families and like Mary and Joseph God is guiding them.

Over the last month, busloads of asylum seekers, those who are in the United States legally, have been arriving in Philadelphia. On Christmas Eve, two busloads arrived, and this Saturday, New Year’s Eve, three more will arrive. Philadelphia has received over a thousand refugees from Texas over the last month. Most come with just their clothes on their backs: t-shirts and shorts, sandals or flip flops. The latest bus had several nursing mothers.

Our very own Rev. Adan Mairena, has been a member of the welcoming team that greets the buses at dawn at 30th Street Station. The welcoming team provides warm clothing, food and comfort to those that God has brought to our city. Many of our congregations have been working to provide needed items for the refugees and we are grateful for this overwhelming support.

However, as the numbers of refugees keeps climbing, we are running out of coats and jackets as well as warm shoes for our new neighbors. We desperately need coats and jackets for men and women, sizes small and medium for both as well as coats and jackets for children. These items can be new or gently used.

Our need also continues for shoes, warm shoes, like boots, for men and women, sizes 6-9.

Please spread word in your communities for this need.

If you have any questions, please contact Rev. Todd Stavrakos at pastortoddgpc@comcast.net or 267-251-0459