Refugees from Ukraine, Afghanistan, Congo, Rwanda and Burundi Offer Hand-Made Goods, Traditional Foods at TownLake YMCA Mother’s Day Bazaar
Saturday May 11, from 10am – 1pm
One hundred percent of proceeds will directly support refugees
AUSTIN – Love will be in the air at the TownLake YMCA on Saturday, May 11, from 10am to 1pm as the Y partners with Global Impact Initiative (GII) to host a Refugee Mother’s Day Arts and Crafts Bazaar. The TownLake YMCA is located at 1100 W. Cesar Chavez near Lamar Blvd. More information is available at https://www.austinymca.org/refugee-arts-bazaar.
The free community event features the work of refugees from several parts of the world who have recently settled in Austin. The artisans will be showcasing hand-made goods, decorative cushions, clothing, gift items, homemade traditional foods and fresh-baked pastries and treats. One hundred percent of proceeds go directly to the vendors.
“These incredibly talented men and women are trying to rebuild their lives through entrepreneurship, drawing from their unique cultural heritage,” said Anjum Malik, CEO of Global Impact Initiative. “We know Austin is a welcoming community that shows its support for those in need, and we encourage everyone to come learn more about these cultures and these people by celebrating their artistic craftsmanship.”
In the last two years more than 2000 refugees have settled in Central Texas. Through organizations like GII, many have found employment in a variety of sectors such as food processing facilities, commercial driving and hospitality. Refugees are also participating in intensive English-as-a-second language (ESL) classes at the HOFT Institute.
“YMCAs have a long history of providing support to people in times of conflict and welcoming our newest neighbors to America,” said Shaq Brown, Chief Operations Officer for the Greater Austin YMCA. “The Y will be providing more services to the refugee community such as memberships, mental health counseling and recreational programming.”
Brown highlighted Everline Counseling at the North Austin and East Communities YMCAs as one example of the Y’s inclusive, supportive programming. “We recognize that stigma and financial barriers often deter individuals from seeking help,” Brown said. “Everline offers a safe and non-judgmental space in our local YMCA centers where YMCA members and community members from all walks of life can access high-quality, low-cost mental health care. Whether through in-person or teletherapy sessions, Everline ensures that help is readily available to those who need it.”
About the Global Impact Initiative
Global Impact Initiative (Gii) is a nonprofit that empowers vulnerable and at-risk communities globally through education, mentoring, and job skills training that builds generational stability and well-being. In the last 3 years Gii has helped over 500 refugees secure jobs, mentored hundreds of refugee women and offered academic support to several hundred refugee children. More information is available at www.globalimpactinitiative.com
