One out of every three people in the Central Valley was born somewhere outside of the United States. Four hundred forty-three were born in Syria. For a little over a year, Kings River Life has been tracking some of their stories and the work of Fresno Interdenominational Refuge Ministries (FIRM) walking with them in those stories. This is an update.
Fresno Interdenominational Refugee Ministries (FIRM) continues serving the community in Fresno for almost its twenty-fourth year. Throughout over two decades, people from all over the world have come through their doors seeking support, love, and hope. As FIRM continues to fulfill its mission of “sharing Christ’s love to build communities of hope with New Americans,” it seems that there continues to be more and more needs.
Eid al-Fitr is a three-day holiday that all Muslims celebrate at the end of fasting the month of Ramadan; it is a wonderful and fun holiday for everyone. The Eid is a reward for all Muslims who fast during the month of Ramadan and is celebrated on the first of Shawwal, the tenth month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
This week, Fresno Interdenominational Refugee Ministries wrapped hundreds of presents for neighborhood children in preparation for its annual Christmas party. During the same week, Christmas came a little early for the residents of Summerset Village across the street. After weeks without heat or the ability to cook, the gas came back on for over 1000 people.
It just so happens that healthy food not only makes healthy bodies, but making healthy food can keep minds healthy as well.
Among the community gardens in Fresno are some special gardens tended by elders who find peace, serenity, and purpose in the process of growing vegetables. In that same process, they produce food for themselves, their families, and their neighbors.
