By Badi M. Ali

The refugee community is facing a crisis. Lutheran Family Services’ decision not to accept more refugee families to resettle at this time is understandable. On Feb. 8, I wrote a letter to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton stating that current resettlement reimbursements were not enough to prevent homelessness.

Reimbursements and supports, like Medicaid and food stamps, need to be continued on an individual case-by-case basis. Some families have experienced more trauma or have health concerns and will take longer to find work and be self-sufficient than others. Analysts believe some Americans will be unable to find work for years in the present economy. To bring families here and then leave them with zero income after only months is tragic and inhumane.

Refugees are facing a humanitarian crisis. As the economy presents more challenges, we, as a community, must recommit to our efforts to assure that basic human rights and dignity are available to all. I urge each group to consider making an ongoing pledge to a resettlement agency. It will take a vigorous effort on everyone’s part. Religious organizations, the private sector, civic organizations, and the peace movement need to invest in the refugees.

We can use the city of High Point as a successful working model. In High Point, World Relief in conjunction with the High Point Housing Authority and the community provides resettled families with immediate stable housing and other needs.

In other words, the helping agencies work together with the government and community in a cooperative manner to solve problems.

Policies must be changed at the federal level to guarantee that resettled refugee families do not lose their housing and receive enough resources to keep their families safe and well. Resettlement reimbursements must be increased and made available longer in order to assure safety, housing, food and health care as refugee families work toward and become self-sufficient. Education and orientation must be provided to assure a smooth transition into their new country, community and professional environment.

A diverse community, like all blessings, comes with a responsibility. If we take on the task to resettle families, we must be able to assure them dignity and safety.

Badi M. Ali is president of the Islamic Center of the Triad in Greensboro.