It’s no exaggeration: World Relief Wisconsin experiences ‘outpouring of support’ during uncertain time 

World Relief Wisconsin donors, volunteers, churches and community organizations have responded swiftly and generously in the weeks since abrupt policy changes and executive orders altered the course of refugee resettlement across the state and nation. 

“We’ve seen an outpouring of support from individuals as well as from church and community partners,” said Gail Cornelius, regional director of World Relief Wisconsin (WRW). “We are just so filled with gratitude during this really difficult time. It is heartening that we have witnessed such an overwhelming demonstration of kindness.” 

Since mid-January, WRW has received more than $200,000 in donations with more coming in every day.  

“In addition, partnerships with Outagamie and Winnebago counties have allowed us to continue to walk alongside and meet the needs of recently arrived refugee families who were welcomed to the U.S. under federal programming that has been impacted,” Cornelius said. 

Support also has come in the form of gift cards that newly arrived refugees can use to purchase basic needs and in-kind donations of furniture for their apartments.  

Helping hands, powerful prayers

As uncertain funding has impacted staffing, the commitment of church and community volunteers has taken on even greater importance as well. 

“We have felt support from our community in many ways during these past few weeks,” said Kalina Davis, Fox Valley church and community engagement manager. “Community members have been calling about getting involved as volunteers, and our current volunteers have been a huge support in practical ways as well as offering words of encouragement and support.” 

Volunteers are stepping up in the Chippewa Valley, too. 

“I’m thankful to see the community step forward to help,” said Jodi Jewell, the church and community engagement specialist based in Eau Claire. “So many have reached out to ask how we’re doing and what they can do. Volunteers who have completed their commitments have decided to reengage. The outpouring has been a balm in the middle of a time of uncertainty.” 

Above all, the power of prayer has uplifted the spirits of the WRW team. 

“We have been so encouraged to hear from church leaders and members that they are praying for World Relief and the refugee families we serve during this time,” Davis said. 

Learn more about how you can stand in the gap during this critical time.