Cincinnati is preparing to welcome dozens of refugees from Afghanistan in the coming months and St. Paul is helping collect welcome baskets for these families who are starting life in our area.

Catholic Charities of Southwestern Ohio is the resettlement agency in our area and is responsible for helping the refugees transition to life in America. Knowing of our previous work helping to resettle a refugee family, they have asked us to collect Welcome Baskets that will aid the new arrivals set up in their new home. Read more for how you can be a part of this.

Welcome Baskets come in themes:

• Bathroom in a Basket
• Bedroom in a Basket*
• Cleaning Closet in a Basket
• Kitchen in a Basket

You will find a list of all of the items needed here. You can bring your items to St. Paul Community United Methodist Church (8221 Miami Road) during regular office hours in December. Feel free to fill a basket or just a part. Note: most items must be new/unused if they are consumable, linen/fabric, or personal items – keep them in their original packaging.

Another way to fill a basket is by making a financial contribution. All monies donated to the “Refugee Welcome Basket Fund” will be used to purchase items to fill out baskets of items collected. You can give online here. Consider sponsoring:

• Bath in a Bag – $25
• Bed in a Bag – $50
• Kitchen in a Bag – $120

We will be scheduling a work day in January to sort the items collected and assemble baskets. Watch for that announcement.