Metro Detroit faith leaders, volunteers travel to Poland–Ukraine border to help war refugees

DETROIT – Fourteen million Ukrainians have now been displaced on account of Vladimir Putin’s conflict. That’s in keeping with the United Nations Refugee Chief, who referred to as it “The quickest largest displacement witnessed in many years.”

There’s an extended winter forward for these refugees, and a few native religion leaders need these individuals to know they’re not forgotten.

St. Clare of Montefalco Catholic Church of Grosse Pointe Park organized its sixth group of volunteers to journey to the Poland-Ukraine border.

Reverend Jim Holley, CEO of Jim Holley Worldwide Ministries, is considered one of seven individuals heading to Poland Wednesday (Nov. 2) evening. He says he wished to go when the conflict began however didn’t get the chance till now.

“I believed it’s a very good time for any person like me with the Catholic Church to go in and allow them to know there’s any person right here that also cares and actually you’re not forgotten,” stated Holley. “So I feel that’s one of many causes that touched my coronary heart to do that proper now.”

The group isn’t going empty-handed, although, as, In simply a few weeks, they raised greater than $10,000 for Ukrainian refugees.

“What we wish to do is take that cash and purchase coats, underwear, and footwear for the kids that’s there,” Holley stated.

They’re additionally taking paintings by Curtis Lewis titled “Let My Folks Go.”

“We wish anybody that will get an opportunity to see the portray to acknowledge that any person cares,” stated Lewis.

It took Lewis two months to finish the piece as a part of his “Justice For All” gallery in Southfield. The thought is to get the president of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, to signal the portray after which carry it again to Metro Detroit.

“I wish to public sale it off, and the proceeds will go to the kids of Ukraine,” Holley stated.

“To know that I’m ready to make use of my abilities and that it’s appreciated and it may be a instrument to assist others all over the world, I feel, it’s very particular,” Lewis stated.

The group plans to remain in Poland for about two weeks.

Contact St. Clare of Montefalco Catholic Church of Grosse Pointe Park or Rev. Jim Holley Worldwide Ministries to search out out extra in regards to the occasion and to donate or volunteer.