We close out our week-long, five-part series on the Afghan refugees residing in Green Bay by hearing from a couple of people who work for Catholic Charities of Green Bay.
Alnilda Albizu is one of the case managers for the organization, and she explained that their work begins as soon as the refugees land at the airport.
“We make sure they have appropriate transportation, and before they leave into our wonderful cold weather, that they do have appropriate cold-weather clothing,” she explained. “Then we bring them into their temporary homes, make sure that we coordinate for food, and make sure that they know that stay is temporary.”
As far as where these temporary homes are located, Director Karmen Lemke said they have many places helping out.
“Temporary housing has looked like St. Norbert Abbey…UW Green Bay…Air BNBs and some longer-stay hotels,” Lemke revealed. “Short term housing…is usually about two weeks before we want to move them into permanent housing.”
While Catholic Charities is grateful for those who have allowed them to use their space for temporary housing, the biggest need right now is for permanent housing for the over 100 men, women, and children.
“We are asking for all possible ideas in terms of accommodating the housing needs,” Lemke pleaded. “If you have any ideas…reach out.”
For ease of care reasons, Lemke said they would like to keep these families local to Green Bay, but they are not opposed to expanding outward to the surrounding area, including the Manitowoc Community.
If you have any ideas for permanent housing, you are encouraged to contact Catholic Charities either by phone at 920-272-8234, or you can email Karmen at KLemke@BGDIOC.org.
