Homework Help for Burmese Children

Homework Help for Burmese Children

RIAC has settled over 50 Burmese refugees in Worcester over the past few years. Many of these families came during the summer of 2009. During the fall season, we established a Homework Help Project for Burmese children ranging in ages from seven to fourteen. Taking place once a week, on Saturday mornings for two hours, Holy Cross students volunteered their time to practice English with the children, help them with homework, teach them about American culture, play games and help them build friendship amongst one another. This program was a great success!! The same children, and others, returned each week to learn from the Holy Cross students, who were learning about Burmese culture in return. We hope to resume this program next semester and also make the opportunity available to families from other countries.

DOHERTY HIGH SCHOOL HELPS RIAC

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DOHERTY HIGH SCHOOL HELPS RIAC

One of our most recent initiatives engaged the Worcester community in RIAC’s Refugee Resettlement Program while simultaneously spreading the word of RIAC’s good work as non-profit organization in the city. Thanks to the efforts of a Holy Cross work-study student who works part time in RIAC’s office, students and faculty from Doherty High School generously donated some basic necessities for new families. Items such as winter clothing, sheets and kitchen ware -- 20 boxes of items -- will be distributed amongst the refugee families in time for the winter season. This enormous support allows RIAC staff to focus on all the other tasks needed in the resettlement process and the combined efforts of our volunteers and employees provides for a smoother transition for the refugees. Many thanks to Doherty High School and the Holy Cross student, an alum of Doherty High School, who organized this great effort!!