How Redeemer is Getting Involved
We are humbled to have the opportunity to be the hands and feet of Jesus as we welcome 100's of Afghans to our communities. Please partner with us to serve and pray over them. We pray that every family will sense the love and peace of God as they begin their new life in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
We will have teams of people to help welcome Afghan families to Tulsa by greeting them at their hotel. We will work with South Tulsa Baptist Church to make sure every family has a “Welcome Basket” in their room before they arrive. The baskets will contain all their basic hygiene items.
If you are interested in serving at the hotels to welcome families, please let us know the days and times you are available.
Details & FAQ
Find more details and answers to some commonly asked questions below.
▸ When are the families arriving?
They began arriving in Tulsa on Friday, September 24. Arrivals are expected to either be daily—or at least 4-5 times a week—for the month of October & November. Families will continue to arrive through March 2022.
▸ Where are they coming from?
Before arriving in Tulsa, the Afghan refugees are stationed at 5 different military bases along the east coast.
▸ What about COVID-19?
Every refugee is tested and quarantined before arriving in Tulsa. The vaccine is available on base, and the majority have opted in to receive it.
▸ What about other vaccinations?
Every refugee has received the MMR vaccine, along with Polio and a TB screening—all at the military base. All children will have received their age-appropriate vaccines.
▸ What is the plan after the hotels?
It is unknown how long the families will stay in the hotels. Due to major cultural differences, Catholic Charities made the decision to use hotels (most of which have donated their rooms), versus host families. The plan is to transition them to permanent housing as soon as possible. If you or anyone you know has connections with apartment complexes or other available properties, please let us know.
▸ How and what can I donate?
Our first/current priority is to collect baskets of all sizes—from “cubes” to laundry baskets. The Catholic Charities Donation Registry provides a list of needed items. (If the item is “grayed” out, it is no longer needed.) Use this website to select what you are able to donate and submit. If you have questions about the website or have not heard back on where to drop off your donations, please let us know.
▸ Can I volunteer somehow other than at the hotel?
Yes! There is a list of needed positions and volunteer opportunities on the Catholic Charities Volunteer Page. This list will be updated as needs change. If you have questions about the website, or if you have signed up and not heard back from anyone, please let us know.