Catholic Charities shares list of needs for Afghan refugees, also looking for attorneys, other volunteers

Catholic Charities in La Crosse is looking for volunteers and specific items in relation to helping Afghan refugees coming to the area.

Catholic Charities of the Diocese of La Crosse said in a statement Sunday it was looking for these items:

• Underwear (women & children)
• Socks (women & children)
• Sweatpants (men, women, & children)
• Prayer mats (can be yoga mats)
• Ponchos
• Clothespins
• Diapers
• Backpacks for Children
• Flashlights
• Baby onesies and sleepers

They can be dropped off at Catholic Charities (map) from 9-11 a.m., 1-3 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Because storage space is limited and the group wants to get the most important items to Fort McCoy, it is not accepting general clothing, household items, furniture, appliances, electronics or food, unless those items are specifically listed.

Catholic Charities also said it is looking for volunteers to assist at Morale, Welfare and Recreation Centers (MWR) that can “dedicate a week of their time to this service.”

They will be located on base, so volunteers will have to be vetted.

Catholic Charities also stated its Immigration Program is engaged in assisting refugees with paperwork and education, in preparation to connect them with Refugee Resettlement Organizations.

So, the organization is also looking for attorneys or others, who have have legal or DOJ experience, and could volunteer to assist. If so, contact Karen Becker at info@cclse.org.