Lorain County for Ukraine developed in 2022 around the need for supportive services for refugee families arriving in Lorain County.
Neighborhood Alliance (formally Neighborhood House Association), with a strong history of supporting the path to citizenship reaching deep into the roots of the organization, is leading the charge to support these incoming families, according to a news release.
Local organizations saw a need and formed LC4Ukraine in March 2022.
Refugee families fleeing Ukraine were arriving with only a few personal items, speaking little to no English and feeling overwhelmed, the release said.
To date, over 18 refugee families have found a haven in Lorain County with two families arriving last week, according to the release.
Refugee families now have access to English courses at Lorain County Community College, and LC4Ukraine staff help families access medical benefits and Social Security cards, the release said.
“The biggest struggle facing our Ukrainians is housing. There is a dire need for assistance,” said Katia Kornienko, case manager for LC4Ukraine, in the release. “There are very limited options for our families, they cannot sign a lease because they are refugees and have no work experience.
“LC4Ukraine has very limited funds and receives funding through donations. Learning the language has been a struggle for many, however, Lorain County Community College has a program intended for refugees. Transportation is also an obstacle, the families cannot go to the social security office, attend classes, get food, go to doctor appointments, or get a job.”
Alicia Foss, president and CEO of Neighborhood Alliance, adds her agency is proud of the work it has done.
“Neighborhood Alliance is proud of the rich history of our organization in helping those in need find safety and comfort within Lorain County,” Foss said in the release. “Through our work with LC4Ukraine, we have been given the opportunity to help Ukrainian families in an impossible situation to find a new place to call home.”
Support still is needed for these families, Kornienko said.
Assistance with housing costs, utilities and transportation are the main concerns, she said.
“Storage for furniture donations and household items,” Kornienko said. “Day-to-day necessities, personal, household items, these are always needed.”
Monetary donations can be made through the Community Foundation of Lorain County website.
Donated funds will assist with housing costs, utilities and transportation, according to the release.
In-kind donations such as storage for furniture donations and household items, day-to-day necessities, store gift cards and personal/household items also are needed, the release said.
For more information or questions, call 440-233-8768.
