Steve Crofter - The Human Side of Refugees Seeking Asylum in the USA
Posted by Dave Nanfeldt
on Nov 06, 2015
The Human Side of Refugees Seeking Asylum in the USA
Steve Crofter, a social justice activist, spoke to forty Rotarians and guests at November’s First Thursday event about his volunteer work on behalf of refugees seeking asylum in the United States. The majority of those seeking asylum fear for their safety. Ultimately, their tenure in the United States depends on how they can make a case that their lives are in danger in their homeland. Steve has made two trips to McAllen, Texas and volunteered at the Humanitarian Respite Center located in the Sacred Heart Church. The Center, sponsored by Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley1, serves refugees who have been released from detention by Homeland Security2 and are on their way to another destination at a relative or friend’s home. The Center offers showers, clothes, food, legal advice, diapers, formula, a place to sleep if necessary and most importantly a warm welcome and friendly face. The volunteers at the Center have a myriad of opportunities to interact with the refugees see them as human beings and become more human themselves. The refuges’ journey, most who have come from Central America3, eventually ends in Deportation Court4 where their chance of staying in Ameica is only 50%. Steve’s involvement, efforts and work in this area is an inspiration to all. Steve has trips planned to McAllen, TX5 and would like to hear from you if you’re interested in volunteering or wanted to support in another way. Steve’s email is steve.crofter@gmail.com