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1st  Washington Refugee Welcoming and Healing Center (WA RWHC) 
by Congolese Integration Network  

SENATE RESOLUTION 8651

By Senators Fortunato, Brown, Das, and L. Wilson

Welcome to the Welcoming and Healing Center – A Place of Resilience, Unity, and Transformation. (Project Initiated in 2019)

ABOUT

Our Vision:
At the Congolese Integration Network, we envision a brighter, more inclusive future for Congolese immigrants and refugees, as well as immigrants and refugees from other nations. Our mission is to create a safe and nurturing environment where healing, community building, and holistic support converge. Through our capital development project, we are proud to introduce the Refugee Healing Center, an essential space for over 2,000 Congolese immigrants and refugees, along with hundreds from diverse backgrounds. This center will become a vibrant hub for transformative services, housing, and community-building activities.

The Washington Welcoming and Healing Center will be a place where new comers will have stable housing instantly, get access to our crucial and proven Culturally appropriate Case Management services, connect to services, build a sense of belonging and community for a successful integration. 

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Why We Need the Welcoming and Healing Center:
CIN has been diligently serving our community for over six years, providing culturally and linguistically appropriate services to support the integration of Congolese immigrants and refugees in King County. Our existing facilities, while valuable, are no longer sufficient to meet the growing needs of our community. The Welcoming and Healing Center will empower us to continue addressing critical issues such as homelessness, mental health, access to vital resources, and building strong community and family relations.

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About Congolese Integration Network:
Since its founding in 2016, CIN has been a sanctuary for Congolese survivors, a place to gather, heal, and build resilience. We've evolved over the years, broadening our mission to include support for the integration of Congolese immigrants and refugees in the King County area. Our dedication to culturally relevant services has helped community members tackle challenges like homelessness, mental health issues, and accessing essential services.

CIN has become a trusted community advocate and a resource hub for identifying community needs and developing solutions. We play a pivotal role in nurturing a cultural home and offering support, services, and healing for immigrants and refugees not only from the DRC but also from other nations.

Join us in building a brighter, more inclusive future at the Congolese Integration Network Welcoming and Healing Center. Together, we will create a place of resilience, unity, and transformation.

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To learn more or to get involved email: Angela@cinseattle.org

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Integrated Cultural Wrap Around Human Support Services
(what will be included in our center?)

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Housing

Shelter and affordable housing are crucial at the Welcoming Center to provide stability for vulnerable individuals and families, addressing homelessness and housing instability within our community. This safe and affordable housing will help foster a secure environment, allowing residents to focus on healing and rebuilding their lives. It is a fundamental step in ensuring the well-being and long-term success of those we serve.

Daycare

A culturally competent daycare and playground at the Welcoming Center are vital to create a nurturing environment that respects and supports the diverse backgrounds of our community. These spaces will not only offer safe and enjoyable play opportunities but will also allow our early learning specialists a space to provide essential English language skills and kindergarten readiness, ensuring a strong educational foundation for newly arriving children. This holistic approach fosters integration and a sense of belonging from an early age.

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Event Space

An accessible event space at the Welcoming Center will serve as a vital hub for public gatherings, fostering inclusivity and community connections. It will provide a platform for cultural exchange, learning, and collaboration, strengthening bonds among diverse groups. This multipurpose facility supports our mission to promote equity, unity, understanding, and shared experiences.

Computer Lab/ESL

A computer lab and ESL classes at the Welcoming Center are essential to empower newcomers with vital digital skills, enhancing their prospects in the U.S. job market. These resources will help bridge the technology gap and facilitate smoother integration into the workforce. By offering access to digital literacy and English language education, we will equip individuals with the tools they need to succeed and contribute to their new community.

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Food-Garden/Clothing

A community garden, culturally competent food bank, and kitchen at the Welcoming Center are essential to provide newcomers with access to fresh, culturally familiar food and the means to prepare it. This initiative will promote self-sufficiency and foster a strong sense of community. Additionally, a clothing bank will ensure that individuals and families have essential clothing items, helping them adapt to their new lives with dignity and comfort.

Sports

A sports room at the Welcoming Center is crucial for newcomers to the U.S. as it provides a therapeutic outlet for healing from the traumas of their homeland. Engaging in sports has been shown to have a profoundly positive impact on mental well-being, promoting resilience and a sense of belonging. This facility will foster both physical and emotional healing, enhancing the overall integration experience for our community members.

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Our Supporters/Funders*

Email angela@cinseattle.org to join our team of supporters today!

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Since 2019, The CONGOLESE INTEGRATION NETWORK (CIN) has been deeply involved in our community, organizing numerous events and initiatives:

  1. Countless community events to engage and strengthen our project.

  2. Five site tours to learn from other organizations' facility acquisition experiences.

  3. Five listening sessions involving youth, parents, business owners, students, and staff, gathering insights to serve over 2000 refugees and immigrants.

  4. Fundraising events to support our mission and projects.

Reports(Click to Open)

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