Good news! The Perla family finally got their apartment. After over 2 months of staying first with Jean Townes and Tom Smith, and then with another generous friend, they were approved for a low income unit at Rivergreen Landing.
Their journey began when they left their home in El Salvador to escape gang violence. Then a long trek through Guatemala and Mexico, and 2 years in Tijuana waiting for permission to enter the US. They were fortunate enough to be found by One Story at a Time, the foundation founded by Linda Carroll of our congregation. Linda reached out to our Immigrant and Refugee Support Team looking for a sponsor for the family. Nancy Kyle agreed to be that person and they arrived in Corvallis in March 2021, but decided this June to join Aracely’s sister in Texas because the cost of living is so high here. Turns out rent is high there, too and wages much lower, so they came back here, and are trying to get reestablished.
As the first residents of Rivergreen Landing, they moved into their new apartment Thursday with the help of Mike Jager and Rich Brainerd and donations of household goods by many people.
Funds are still needed for legal fees and their asylum hearing which is scheduled for 2027.
To donate, click the button below and choose the fund “IRST (the Immigrant and Refugee Support Team)”.
We are blessed to have this warm and loving family in our community.