LSS on WTMJ: Watching, Preparing for Ukraine Refugees

West Allis, WI – As Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin & Upper Michigan (LSS) resettled around 200 Afghan evacuees in the past six months, many now wonder about Ukraine refugees coming to the United States. With Russia invading its neighboring country, Ukrainians have fled and could seek assistance in America. The LSS Refugee Resettlement team is always collecting supplies, speaking with volunteers and preparing for the next wave of refugees – whenever that may happen.

“I think it’s important for people to understand that refugee resettlement isn’t an immediate response to crisis,” Mary Flynn told AM620 WTMJ radio in this recent interview. “Obviously for the Ukrainians, the first choice would be for people to return home.”

You can hear the whole interview below with Flynn, Program Manager for the LSS Refugee Resettlement program:

Local Agency LSS Assists Afghan Refugees (CBS News Story)

West Allis, WI – Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin & Upper Michigan (LSS) is preparing to serve as many Afghan refugees as possible as they make their way from Fort McCoy into various cities across Wisconsin. CBS 58 News in Milwaukee has been covering the story and spoke with Mary Flynn, Program Director for LSS Refugee Resettlement, about what can be expected.

With many refugees escaping from war and violence, they will need time and assistance when it comes to adjusting to their new lives in the United States. While the individuals and families will certainly need basic essentials for everyday health and safety, it goes beyond that when LSS steps in to help.

“They’re going to be a very traumatized group of people…and they’re going to require some extra TLC,” Flynn said. “We know that the community is going to step up and help us with that.”

Watch the original TV news story below:

LSS Helping Afghan Refugees (Fox 6 News Story)

West Allis, WI – As tens of thousands of refugees from Afghanistan begin their journey to the United States, Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin & Upper Michigan (LSS) has been preparing to serve those who may settle in Wisconsin. Fox 6 News in Milwaukee, Wisconsin covered the story and spoke with Héctor Colón, President and CEO of LSS.

Though the individuals and families fleeing war will first stop at Fort McCoy, many will end up in different parts of the state where LSS can support them.  LSS helps to get the refugees on their feet and moving forward toward true independence.

“We connect them to all of the resources that will help them be as independent and self-sufficient as possible,” Colón said. “We help these individuals come to Wisconsin, to our country, because they’re fleeing from war and persecution.”

You can watch the full news story below: