Copyright Mechanicsburg Patriot News
By Alex Swan I began working at Church World Service (CWS) Harrisburg last year, and it did not take long for me to realize that this position is far more than a job — it is a true calling. That’s why I’m so excited about this year’s CWS International Friendsgiving Fundraiser that will be held Nov. 22. I encourage people in our community to suppport the important event by purchasing tickets to get a taste of some incredible international cuisine. Tickets are available at: https://www.simpletix.com/e/november-22-2025-cws-harrisburg-internatio-tickets-230876. The 2025 International Friendsgiving will feature beautifully curated meal boxes filled with five exquisite traditional dishes representing the vibrant cuisines of Afghanistan, Somalia, Syria, Eritrea, and Venezuela. By joining us, you will not only enjoy a world of flavor but also help extend compassion, opportunity, and belonging to those starting life anew in our community. International Friendsgiving is more than just an event — it is an act of solidarity and compassion. It offers our community an opportunity to stay together, share a meal, and celebrate friendship, gratitude, and multicultural unity. Every meal purchased helps CWS Harrisburgcontinue its mission of empowering refugees and immigrants as they rebuild their lives with dignity and hope. If you have ever dreamed of exploring another culture or traveling the world, International Friendsgiving is the perfect place to start — no passport required! You can experience the beauty of global connection right here in our community by enjoying a meal that tells a story. Assisting refugees as they adjust to life in the United States gives me a profound sense of purpose each day. As an immigrant myself, I understand how daunting, confusing, and emotionally demanding it can be to start in an unfamiliar country. That’s why I feel so deeply connected to the people I serve. I understand their fears, hopes, and determination to rebuild their lives. At CWS Harrisburg, I have the privilege of guiding clients through some of the most essential yet complex steps of resettlement — applying for public benefits through the County Assistance Office, monitoring their progress, and ensuring that their needs are met in a timely manner. For many people, the public benefits process is unfamiliar and often confusing, so providing a clear explanation can greatly ease their anxiety. Often, the most valuable thing I can offer is encouragement — a simple, “You’re doing great, keep going! Everything is under control,” can mean so much to someone starting from scratch. One experience that stands out to me involves a client seeking help to renew their public benefits. The client looked at me, visibly anxious, and said, “I don’t understand what they’re asking for.” Together, we went through every question, line by line. I explained what each item meant and how to respond accurately. While the task may appear self-explanatory — a few forms, a few questions — even U.S. citizens often find the process confusing. Witnessing the relief and gratitude on that client’s face as we completed the renewal together was profoundly moving. Our clients are also among the most generous and kind-hearted individuals I have ever met. The warmth of their hospitality often fills our office — quite literally. It has become an inside joke that you can never say no to tea, because one cup always leads to a meal! Their hospitality and kindness are truly touching. Each visit feels less like a service appointment and more like a celebration of human connection, understanding, and cultural exchange. I am profoundly grateful for this work because it has allowed me to experience the incredible richness of so many cultures — their languages, traditions, stories, and, of course, their food. So, join us at CWS International Friendsgiving — share a plate, share a story, and share hope.
