Afghan help update

The city of La Crosse will consider a resolution of welcome and support at its October 14 meeting. A  resolution sponsor, Council Member Rebecca Schwarz, reported that it has passed the committees, though one community member spoke against it at the Judiciary and Advisory committee. Council Member Mackenzie Mindel, the other sponsor, responded to those concerns.

Consider emailing the council and mayor to let them know you support such a resolution and encouraging its passage (zzcouncilmembers@cityoflacrosse.org and reynoldsm@cityoflacrosse.org).

On October 19, join an online discussion about, "Getting to know our new Afghan neighbors." The live stream link can be found at: www.viterbo.edu/afghansupport

Donations for visitors housed at Fort McCoy are still being accepted. Thirteen thousand people who left their lives and homes behind with nothing but the clothes on their backs have many needs. Current and continuing needs include appropriate everyday clothing, winter outerwear, underwear, and shoes. 

Please consider using one of the online portals to ensure your donation meets the most urgent needs. Or use the lists on these sites and shop on other sites. (For example, Fruit of the Loom (fruit.com) has men's sweatshirts on clearance for $5 to $6.50 each.)

If you shop online, please set the shipping address to Team Rubicon Resettlement, Sparta Armory, 602 E Division St, Sparta WI 54656. Donations of NEW items  may also be delivered to the armory between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. seven days a week.

• Amazon
• Target
• Walmart
• Team Rubicon Registry

For more information about other donating and helping opportunities, please see the Catholic Charities Afghanistan Refugee Assistance page.