Houses of Worship called on to aid in the migrant crisis

As the city continues to call on the federal government for aid in the wake of the migrant crisis, reports say the mayor's Office of Faith-Based and Community Partnerships sent an email this past week appealing to religious leaders, just like Pastor Williams.

News 12 Staff

Dec 18, 2022, 2:49 AM

Updated 663 days ago

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As the city continues to call on the federal government for aid in the wake of the migrant crisis, reports say the mayor's Office of Faith-Based and Community Partnerships sent an email this past week appealing to religious leaders, just like Pastor Williams.
"This is why we are here. We are called to be servants to the community in the best way we can. If we are able to utilize our space to house those in needs, why not do it? This is what we are called to do," Williams said.
Pastor Alex Williams who leads the historic IIM Church in Fort Greene, Brooklyn, says the city is now leaning in on houses of worship with specific functions to provide temporary shelter for migrants in need.
"The goal is for us to utilize our spaces that we have. Our churches, to house. Anything we would expect to have to accommodate. A proper bathroom, kitchen, a living space. Some thing that also humanizes the experience and ensures people have a place to rest their head," said Williams.
Pastor Mullery, who leads the Beraca Baptist Church in Canarsie, says places of worship are the epicenter of resources, even if spiritual houses cannot provide space.
Now, faith leaders say this appeal follows another call to houses of worship months ago with the 'Adopt A Shelter' program with collected donated items to distribute.