I write to seek the help of neighbors across New Hampshire on behalf of an organization that is serving our newest neighbors. BCNH – Building Community in New Hampshire – is an organization established by refugees to support refugees. As assistance for refugee communities has been cut across the country, BCNH is in great need of our help.
I recently tried to explain this need to my young son. I reminded him that he had met some refugees at our church and in our neighborhood. I tried to explain what a refugee was, noting that many had faced war, had been forced to leave their homes and often had lacked food.
I explained that they had applied to live in the United States and that most had waited more than 10 years for that opportunity. I explained that they needed our assistance to learn English, apply for jobs or prepare to become citizens.
I told him that BCNH helped these neighbors of ours, but that this year they did not have enough money and needed our help. He said he wanted to help, too, and offered all of the money in his piggy bank and all that he has saved from birthdays and lemonade stands.
My son’s response reminded me why we chose to return to New Hampshire and raise our own family here. We are a state that welcomes our neighbors, supports our communities, and steps up to challenges. As you consider where to give this year, please consider supporting BCNH.
CAITLIN FENNESSY
Concord