Oak Harbor Duo Launch Winter Clothing Drive For Afghan Refugees

OAK HARBOR, WA — In late October, as thousands of Afghan refugees began arriving in America after fleeing violence in the Middle East, leaders from across Washington gathered to ask Evergreen State residents to welcome their new neighbors with open arms.

While many Puget Sound residents have done just that, one duo from Oak Harbor are taking it a step further, by launching a fundraiser to buy winter clothing for thousands of newly-arrived Afghan children.

"These children arrived at the New Jersey Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst with only the clothes on their backs – and they need your help," write fundraiser organizers Clyde Shavers and Maggie Johns. "As colder weather approaches, there is a dire need for warm winter clothing."

Shavers and Johns have set a goal of raising $5,000, which they say will be used to deliver coats, jackets, and shoes directly to children in need.

"Your compassionate support will have an immediate impact," organizers said. "Help us give hope to each child as they reunite with family and look to build a better life."

Despite just launching two days ago, as of Tuesday the drive has already raised nearly $800 from seven donors.

In total, the White House estimates roughly 37,000 Afghan refugees will be resettled in America, including 1,700 right here in Washington. According to fundraiser organizers, that number also includes about 4,000 children, who they hope to keep clothed and protected as winter arrives.

>> See Shavers and Johns' fundraiser on GoFundMe.com.

Donating to buy winter clothes is just one of many ways Washingtonians can help Afghan refugees as they settle in. The governor's office has provided this list of resettlement groups in need of support. And those who want to volunteer their time can volunteer directly with the DSHS Office of Refugee and Immigrant Assistance by emailing ORIAinfo@dshs.wa.gov, the governor's office said.

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Resettling Afghan Refugees In WA: What's Different This Time

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