About Sandy Springs reporter. (Sandy Springs, GA) 2007-current | View Entire Issue (Nov. 2, 2024)
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) at -r ssji&L 'nrrr CO ^ J§§ ■V < USSSfmk vA ilC ri1 A MB'! HIGH HIGH MUSEUM OF ART ATLANTA THROUGH FEB 16 TICKETS AT HIGH.ORG Georgia O’Keeffe (American, 1887-1986), Pink Dish and Green Leaves (detail), 1928-1929, pastel on board, private collection. Photography courtesy of Bruce M. White. This exhibition is organized by the Art Institute of Chicago. This exhibition is supported by an indemnity from the Federal Council on the Arts and the Humanities. PREMIER EXHIBITION SERIES SPONSOR iDE LTA PREMIER EXHIBITION SERIES SUPPORTERS Mr. Joseph H. Boland, Jr. wfsh. BENEFACTOR EXHIBITION SERIES SUPPORTERS Robin and Hilton Howell AMBASSADOR EXHIBITION SERIES SUPPORTERS Loomis Charitable Foundation Mrs. Harriet H. Warren ROUGHDRAFTATLANTA.COM NOVEMBER 2024 | 15
