Article Contributed by
Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Jamestown
The New Neighbors Coalition works with Buffalo’s Journey’s End Refugee Services to settle refugee families in Jamestown.
The Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Jamestown (UUCJ) supports New Neighbors’ efforts by providing space for furniture and household items as they are collected. Apartments were furnished for the two refugee families from the Democratic Republic of the Congo who have made their way here to date.
Theresa DeLuca is the chief advancement officer of Journey’s End in Buffalo. On Sunday, May 21, 2023, UUCJ looks forward to welcoming her to speak at their 10:30 a.m. hybrid service.
DeLuca’s message is “Welcoming Refugees.” Anticipating her visit, she said, “Journey’s End Refugee Services is grateful to be welcoming refugees in Jamestown. Have you wondered who is eligible to be a refugee? What is the resettlement process? What programs does Journey’s End offer for refugees?” DeLuca will speak on these topics as well as how to get more involved. “I look forward to talking with the congregation about refugee resettlement and answering any questions.”
Journey’s End Refugee Services, Inc. is a Christian community-based organization with the mission of welcoming refugees without regard to ethnic origin or creed and to assist them to become healthy, independent, contributing members of the community. Its purpose is to provide refugees with the resources and support they need to become successful, active and contributing members of the Western New York Community.
DeLuca’s message relates to the first two of the seven principles that Unitarian Universalist congregations affirm, promote and hold as strong values and moral guides: The inherent worth and dignity of every person, and justice, equity and compassion in human relations;
Congregant Janet Forbes, who serves on the New Neighbors Coalition’s Home Education Committee, is the service leader. Julie Anderson is pianist.
A graduate of the University of Buffalo with a Master’s degree in Broadcast Journalism from Syracuse University, DeLuca worked as a journalist and multimedia producer. Later she was Hands Across Buffalo project manager for the Homeless Alliance of Western New York and then worked for Child & Family Service of Erie County, ultimately as donor and public relations manager. She joined Journey’s End Refugee Services last July.
A potluck follows the service. All are welcome.
Participation can be either in person at 1255 Prendergast Avenue in Jamestown or online. To join virtually, use the link at UUJamestown.org/calendar.
The Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Jamestown is a progressive, liberal religious community serving the southern tier of Western New York and Warren County, Pa. The UUCJ’s mission is to support and celebrate each other, encourage spiritual and individual growth, and serve the wider community.
Learn more about the UUCJ at UUJamestown.org or on their Facebook page facebook.com/JamestownUU.
