A Salt Lake City family who fled their original home in Burundi is living in a newly augmented house thanks to the efforts of some caring volunteers.
Granite Education Foundation helped pair an LDS ward from Saratoga Springs to a to the family in Salt Lake City whose home was in need of upgrades and repairs. Men, women and children worked Friday and Saturday to do a total home makeover. They painted, set up bunk beds, brought in new kitchen appliances, all new light fixtures, a new television, and stocked the pantry. They completely remodeled the inside and even added plants and trees outside.
When Cosette Biyanke and her children returned to see their home Saturday evening, they couldn’t believe the transformation that had taken place.
As we move toward the holiday season, many individuals and families feel a genuine desire to reach out and provide assistance to those who stand in need. As you look for ways to lift those who may benefit from your help, please consider the refugee families living in your community. Granite School District has an exceptionally large population of individuals and families who have fled their home nations and settled in Utah. Refugees face several unique challenges. Many arrive with limited or no English, education or job skills. They are often under-employed and have a difficult time paying rent and utilities and meeting their families’ basic needs.
There are many ways to get involved and lift these families, including: donation drives, food drives, cleaning kits, mentoring, hosting a social event, and providing meals.
For more information about helping refugee families, please contact Granite Education Foundation: 385-646-4483.