Refugees who recently legally arrived in Erie were given the lay of the land on Wednesday.
Catholic Charities hosted an orientation for about 20 people who fled war-torn countries, including Afghanistan and Ukraine.
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They were welcomed by Mayor Joe Schember and members of the Erie police department.
A man who fled the Congo and spent 31 years in a refugee camp said he’s relieved to hear police are not to be feared here.
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“Having the police around, it is very encouraging in that we are trying to adjust to life in the US so that they are trying all they can in order to help us adjust so we may not be fearful,” said Chilumba Mulumba, just arrived in Erie from Zambia.
Catholic Charities is also providing English lessons for the new arrivals and connecting them with other support services while they adjust to life in Erie.
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