Newspaper Page Text
Welcome Co-Op helps refugees start anew with housing, support
By Cathy Cobbs
Each year, thousands of people
escaping violence and persecution arrive
legally in the United States, looking for a
fresh start. However, for most, what they
are carrying, usually just a suitcase or two,
is all they own.
That’s where the Welcome Co-Op,
which recently relocated to Tucker,
steps in. The agency works with housing
providers, vendors and volunteers to
secure housing, collect needed household
items and furnishings, and set up homes
for documented refugees coming to the
Atlanta area.
It also manages the Shop of Hope thrift
store where refugees can obtain clothing,
shoes and personal items free of charge.
The Welcome Co-Op began with a
conversation in 2018 between several
agencies — New American Pathways, The
International Rescue Committee and
Catholic Charities Atlanta, focusing on
collaborating, rather than competing, in
resettlement efforts. Inspiritus joined the
mix in 2021.
The Welcome Co-Op started providing
its piece of resettlement services in 2021.
Since then, the agency has set up 1,863
apartments, welcomed 7,673 people to
Georgia, and provided clothing to 3,600
people.
“We want to build community
together,” Emily Laney, the organization’s
executive director said. “The people who
arrive here want to work. They want their
kids to go to school.”
Laney said statistics show that 95% of
resettled families are self-suff dent within
six months.
The agency is
looking for a variety
of items — gently used
furniture, household
items and clothing and
shoes. Laney said the
greatest need is men’s
clothing, hygiene kits,
and shoes, as well as
couches and dining
room furniture.
In addition,
the agency needs
individuals and groups
to volunteer in a variety
of capacities.
Find out more
information at
welcomeco-op. org.
The Welcome Co-Op Executive Director Emily Laney says
the agency concentrates on providing housing and clothing
to refugees coming to Atlanta. (Photo by Cathy Cobbs)
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NOVEMBER 2024 | 15
