Tag: volunteer

A train ride, bus ride, and then 5 minute walk this evening took me to the Kasongo family’s new home.  Walking through the snow, there was a clue something wasn’t quite “typical” – the trash can on the street was overflowing, and the only one out at the curb on the street.  I arrived there about 10 minutes early for the formal introduction meeting.  A crisp, chilly evening, I appreciated being let inside right away.  I was welcomed into their home and invited to sit down, but first asked to step into the bathroom.  Another clue that they were coming from a different part of the world was a bathroom tub that appeared to be used for washing clothes and a bathroom window open on a 10 F day.  Unlike many refugee families, which are resettled into apartment complexes where many refugee families live, the Kasongo’s are renting a 2 bedroom, 1.5 bath home on a quiet cul-d-sac.  It’s in a what many would consider a less desirable part of town with a reputation of being a little rough at times.  However, one only has to imagine that the family has seen horrible conditions and violence being run out of their homes in what I learned was eastern Congo, which may make this neighborhood seem more like a very pleasant spot. Continue reading “Formal Introduction Meeting”