Migration & Refugee Services

When Russia invaded his homeland, Andrew’s family endured unimaginable trauma. “There is no safe place from missile strikes in Ukraine. You see your neighbors dying, murdered for nothing. The horror of war and uncertainty are mentally devastating.”

A professional photographer, Andrew has a disability making him exempt from the draft. When Russian attacks became more frequent, he sought help from an American employing him as a freelance photo editor. Carol Malick of St. Hilary’s in Fairlawn had assisted refugees in the past and reached out to Catholic Charities. The Migration and Refugee Services “Welcome Circles” guide parishioners step-by- step through the complicated application process to bring displaced Ukrainians to the U.S. The groups also educate parishioners on financial resources as they sponsor families navigating new lives.

Andrew’s family initially fled to Poland – but with nearly 15 million refugees, jobs are impossible to find, and tensions high. They’re grateful for support that brought them to Northeast Ohio.

“We wouldn’t have been able to get Andrew’s family here without the Welcome Circle,” says Carol. “I had no idea what I was doing but relied on God and He made a way!” She found the monthly virtual meetings extremely informative.

“I thank God for work being done by Welcome Circles,” says Andrew. “And with help from many other people, we have an apartment, furniture, food, and our son started school. We feel safe and supported. Europe is overcrowded with refugees and the war shows no sign of ending. People are starting to forget, and this is a problem. We would be happy if the war ended tomorrow and we could go home – but right now, Ukrainians need help.”

Read More about the Welcome Circles program in the March/April 2024 issue of the Northeast Ohio Catholic Magazine!

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