Sunday, 22 June 2014

New Bern Farmer's Market Hosts World Refugee Day Celebration


NEW BERN, N.C. — Friday marked World Refugee Day. The celebration continued Saturday at the New Bern Farmer's Market.

The Interfaith Refugee Ministry set up a booth at the market to celebrate the special day.

Interfaith Refugee Ministry is a group that serves refugees from countries such as Iraq, Iran, Cuba, Columbia and Burma who are living in eastern North Carolina.

New Bern resident Julie Hill said she's familiar with the agency.

"A lot of my neighbors actually volunteer with them. I know this week we had a terrible fire that displaced a lot of families, so I'm happy that they are out here and I can make a donation today," Hill said.

The festivities came days after a fire in New Bern destroyed the homes of five refugee families from Burma. Interfaith Refugee Ministry's Nicy Cooper said it's up to the community to help out.

"They have left because of persecution, not because of their will," Cooper said. "With that said, they come here to start a new life. And with anyone that is compassionate, they know if they go somewhere and they are starting a new life, they would want help as well."

Farmer's market visitors were able to try a variety of authentic food made by refugees from Burma. Hill said she's thankful that these refugees have made New Bern their home.

"When we have new people in our community ... bring new cuisine for people to try, things like that. I mean, it just makes your community greater," Hill said.

Interfaith Refugee Ministry welcomes donations of furniture, clothing, household items, money and gift cards.

Source: http://www.news.myanmaronlinecentre.com/2014/06/22/new-bern-farmers-market-hosts-world-refugee-day-celebration/

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