The Mohawk Valley Resource Center for Refugees representative was our weekly speaker at the Little Falls Rotary Club.
The center is responsible for the reception and placement of refugees locating to the Mohawk Valley, as well as providing Employment services, handling immigration and citizenship documents, enhanced cultural orientation for new comers (health, safety, etc.). Special programs cover traffic safety, learning english for speakers of other languages which is in partnership with the Utica School District, citizenship classes, small businees developemnt in partnership with SUNY IT and computer learning skills.
There is also a 'gear up' program with Mohawk Valley Community College, a partnership with Oneida County Health Department for establishing or joining community gardens.
Pughe explained that the center can provide professional and confidential help, translation services, helping refugees learn how to build community with many other cultures.
Pictured with Shana Pughe (second from left) are Dave Champion (left), Larry Seargeant (center), Pat Talaba and Darryl Harrington - Little Falls Rotary President (right).