September 13, 2022
PRESENT: Rev. Stephen Govett, Billie Fidlin, David Harriss, Janelle Chiricuzio, Flor is in Mexico at a funeral – we sent our prayers
AGENDA
Welcome – Stephen
Intro of Members – all
Review of Current Asylum Work
David – held a meeting with a prospective legislator, the person did not make it past the primary election. Yuma as elsewhere needs a federal plan for asylum. Yuma had neither proper housing or transportation, to get folks to PHX or Tucson for court dates. Unsure of current status. Of note, border patrol is a big employer in Yuma.
Stephen – Vegas is very different in the sense they do not have drop-off rates such as AZ. The people they get are those who have sponsors here. Stephen has spoken with Timote.
Central is receiving people and donations – busy!!! Vegas is receptive to people coming in. Vegas is the largest employer of refugees. Catholic Charities does a great amount of work in this area. First Tonga Mesa and Central are both receiving people seeking asylum.
Janelle – congregation’s attitude towards this subject is somewhat unknown, although Mission Committee always has great success when needs are presented. Janelle will contact Timote regarding their needs since he is not on this call today.
Update on The Long Journey Scholarship – We are working with the UM Foundation on the application – should be ready within a few weeks. We will announce when ready to the team, key leaders in the Conference who can also share.
Frequency of meetings – Four times a year or as needed.
Stephen will contact Flor and Timote to see what they need, as well as Ella and Gretchen. David will contact Sandra and Manuel Jimenez to see if they want to attend our next meeting.
