Find out more about how we help asylum seekers in the New River Valley.
Find out more about how we help asylum seekers in the New River Valley.
FFOAS is a growing community of compassionate volunteers who come together to assist asylum seekers in our region.
The Floyd Friends of Asylum Seekers community supports Floyd's legal resident asylum-seekers through donations that cover medical visits, legal advice, rent and transportation costs. Our community also volunteers transportation services and donations in kind in response to specific needs of the asylum seekers.
One woman's labor of love helped a handful of people at a time. FFOAS then grew into a motivated base of dedicated volunteers. Previously, FFOAS met buses at stops along their routes as they travel North. During quick changeovers they distribute hot meals, extra clothing, and supplies for the rest of the journey. Currently, this group supports 31 asylum seekers who are residents of Floyd, VA.
This week I would like to introduce you to Maria, Jose and Jesus. This young family is from Mexico. The area they come from is extremely dangerous. It is run by cartels and gangs one of which is known as "corta cabezas" literally translated as "head cutters". Heads and other body parts are common to be found on a regular basis, as a scare tactic and to punish anyone who stands up to them.
In Mexico they made a meager living by tending their garden and selling their produce. Jose also worked as a barber.
When they found out about the caravan headed to the USA they knew this was their chance to live where they would not be in constant fear. Their decision to leave was cemented when they found out they were pregnant with their second baby.
They announced that they would like to name their baby girl who is due to arrive in late October, after the Founder! They said they selected the name because since arriving in Floyd they found an angel.
The founder told them that they are just the person that brings to them the items, food, transportation, help with legal expenses, medical and dental expenses, etc that the amazing, caring community provides with their donations.
I know these are crazy tough times for us all. Financial donations for August so far via checks and through PayPal are a fraction of what we need.
We depend on your donations to be able to provide care to this and the other 7 families we assist. Please help us.
Donations can be cash or money order mailed to FFOAS P.O. Box 628, Floyd VA. 25091 or through donate button on our website.
All donations go to our work assisting asylum seekers. Every little bit is precious and appreciated.
You can contribute to our cause through Venmo.
Click below to donate through PayPal.
This song by Chico Estrado
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