Refugee Support Update
St. Stephen’s ongoing partnership with USCRI/Erie continues to grow, thanks to your generosity! We've donated over 20 bicycles to support refugee families and are now launching a “Sponsor a Month of Diapers” initiative—$222.50 covers supplies for 50 families. To participate, simply write a check to St. Stephen’s with “USCRI diapers” in the memo. Current needs also include fans, a clothes washer, a small vacuum, and a refrigerator. For more info or to help, contact John Rushe at 814-602-0407 or ErieRushe@roadrunner.com. Thank you for putting your faith into action!
St. Stephen’s partnership with USCRI/Erie–International Institute began during the influx of Afghan refugees to Erie. You may remember the room boxes we assembled back then. This year, our efforts have grown—thanks to your continued generosity!
🚲 Donations in Action
We’ve now donated over 20 bicycles—a vital source of transportation for adults and fun for kids.
👶 Sponsor a Month of Diapers
John & Pat Rushe invite you to join them as Diaper Sponsors. The USCRI on-site daycare provides diapers twice a month to 50 families through the Erie Family Center. The annual cost, even with discounts, is $2,670.
Sponsoring one month costs $222.50—a small amount that makes a big impact for 50 families.
To sponsor:
Write a check to “St. Stephen’s”
Note “USCRI diapers” in the memo
Place it in the offering plate
We'll consolidate all donations and forward them to USCRI with a list of sponsors.
🧺 What’s Needed (and What’s Not)
Currently NOT Needed:
Furniture
Housewares
Winter clothing
Currently Needed:
Fans (window, box, or tabletop) for refugee families
Clothes washer
Small upright vacuum cleaner
Refrigerator for the USCRI office
You can also find their full and up-to-date list here:
👉 USCRI Amazon Wish List
Have questions or want to pledge?
📞 Voice/Text: 814-602-0407
📧 Email: ErieRushe@roadrunner.com
Thank you, St. Stephen’s, for continuing to show what community support looks like in action!