As the crisis unfolds in Afghanistan and new refugees arrive in the U.S., many Americans are asking how they can help. At Newcomers Access Center (NAC), a local nonprofit, we are gratified for the many people who have reached out to volunteer. People all across the greater Los Angles/San Bernardino area have signed up to help: cleaning apartments, picking up and delivering furniture, organizing new apartments, sorting/purchasing household items, bedding and more. We love and appreciate our volunteers who graciously gift us their time, talent and treasure. 

The biggest need we have now is financial contributions. NAC operates on a shoestring budget funded by our supporters. Because we are volunteer driven, we have low administrative costs. When you donate to our nonprofit, your dollars go to provide for the immediate needs of families we serve. Things like rent subsidies, mattresses, car seats, groceries, driving lessons, school enrollment and supplies, gift cards, used car deposits, and other necessities that allow newcomers to successfully start new lives. Over the last few years, NAC has assisted refugee families from Syria, Iraq, Jordan, and Afghanistan get settled in the greater San Gabriel area.

With the fall of the Afghan government to the Taliban in August, many Afghans who served with our troops or US contractors will arrive on a Special Immigration Visas (SIV). Some will be joining relatives already established here in our community. Through work with local faith communities, NAC has secured temporary housing in two Claremont locations. This is a blessing as temporary housing is the biggest hurdle for new arrivals.  

The best way you can help our families is to make a donation to NAC by sending in a check or paying online. Thus we can purchase necessities refugees specify. You can make a donation by sending a check to: Newcomers Access Center, 1401 N. College Ave Building F, Claremont CA 91711. You can also make an online donation. Donations may be tax deductible.  Thank you for your compassion and support.