In preparation for welcoming the guests, the chapter and its supporters raised $5,200 in items bought on Amazon. They also donated nearly $6,000 in goods — including new purchases, food, groceries, and gently used items — for a total of roughly $11,200.

Volunteers also spent nearly 75 hours preparing for and welcoming our guests. This work includes setting up the homes, assembling furniture, picking up and dropping off donations, and providing welcome.

“This is an incredible testament to the power of a galvanized community," says English Professor Diya Abdo, Founder and Director of ECAR. "The fact that we were able to prepare fully to welcome a significant number of guests over a short period of time speaks volumes to what we can do together when we put our hearts and minds to it."

To get involved with Every Campus a Refuge at Guilford College, please email everycampusarefuge@guilford.edu. You can also give to the Guilford College chapter online.

ECAR mobilizes partnerships between colleges and universities and local resettlement agencies to provide newcomers with free temporary housing on campus as well as community support. The program provides a softer landing and more dignified beginning for newcomers and enhances the educational, research, and service missions of colleges and universities. To learn more, please visit the ECAR website.