INVITATION: Love Your New Neighbor
Dear Vine Family,
As I follow Jesus, I feel drawn to walk alongside refugees and immigrants. Hearing their stories and witnessing their courage has changed how I see faith in action. Today, we face the largest displacement crisis in recorded history, so this is one of the clearest ways I can live out Jesus’ command to love my neighbor.
As followers of Jesus, we are called to love our neighbors, welcome the stranger, and care for the vulnerable. Throughout Scripture, God reminds us that hospitality and compassion are at the very heart of our faith:
“I was a stranger and you welcomed me.” (Matthew 25:35)
The New Americans Program at Lutheran Services Carolinas lives out this calling every day by helping refugees and immigrants build new lives here in Western North Carolina. Many of these families have fled unimaginable hardship and are starting over in a new country with very little.
Through the partnership of churches like The Vine, they find not only practical help, but also friendship, hope, and a true sense of belonging.
How You Can Help
It’s about showing up, offering kindness, and helping those created in the image of God to feel seen and loved as they rebuild their lives. It is also a constant reminder to me that God's plan includes inviting people from every nation, tribe, and tongue into His Kingdom. I am humbled that He has permitted me to serve Him in this way.
Here are several meaningful ways to get involved:
- Gift Cards for Groceries or Essentials: Cards from stores like Ingles, Target, Walmart, or Visa Gift Cards are especially helpful. They give families the dignity of choosing their own food, clothing, and household items, meeting immediate needs while empowering them to make their own decisions.
- Welcome Kit Donations: Host a Welcome Kit party with your small group to collect essential household or hygiene items for newly arriving families.
- Skill-Based Volunteering: Serve as an Online English Tutor, Conversation Partner, Youth Mentor, Wellness Partner, Homework Helper, or Cultural Orientation Facilitator.
- Provide a Meal or Groceries for New Arrivals: We expect additional new arrivals in Asheville soon. Gather a few friends to prepare a culturally appropriate meal or provide groceries as a gesture of welcome and care.
- Road Runner: Have some extra time during the week or plan to be in Asheville? Volunteer to drive clients to and from classes at AB Tech or medical appointments.
Every act of service, big or small, helps families feel seen, valued, and loved. Your compassion reflects the heart of Jesus to those who have been invited by our government to begin a new life in safety.
If you would like to learn more or get involved, contact Lara Hollaway.