The financial headlines are scary, but the lines at the food pantries are even more telling:  Arizonans, especially minority populations like refugees, are feeling the latest wave of financial unrest. The latest data from the Association of Arizona Food Banks shows a 39% increase in the number of requests for emergency food banks compared to this same time last year. There is also a 20% increase in clients at food banks statewide.
When refugees arrive to the United States, they have a limited amount of time to receive government financial support, including money for food. They are encouraged to find employment as quickly as possible. After having fled their countries to escape persecution, refugees face a new set of challenges once they arrive in Arizona. COAR volunteers help make this transition as smooth as possible, from working with families one-on-one, to helping high school students graduate and pursue college, to guiding  families in need to community food banks and other resources. Maneuvering through a new language, culture and set of expectations can be daunting.  COAR helps make this experience easier for many refugees.
We are incredibly thankful for our volunteers and supporters. Together, we are improving the well-being of Arizona’s refugee community.

Warm regards,
Kelli M. Donley
Executive Director