What is a Co-Sponsor Team?
Co-Sponsor Teams are a unique model where a group of volunteers (typically from a house of worship) is paired with a newly arrived refugee family. This partnership helps to meet the social, emotional and material needs of newly arriving refugees. During the refugees first days and weeks in Arizona, Co-Sponsor Teams are friends who offer emotional support and encouragement during an often difficult transition.
During COVID-19, Co-Sponsor Teams have shifted responsibilities to these main areas:
Setting up the apartment
Providing two weeks worth of food
Decorating the apartment for a welcome, including signage in the individual or family’s native language
Assisting with rent payments and internet access
Co-Sponsor Teams take on a variety of roles, which might include:
Setting up an apartment for an arriving refugee individual or family
Rental assistance
Collecting furnishing and household items
Collecting seasonal clothing and hygiene supplies
Purchasing groceries for initial arrival
Greeting refugees at the airport when they arrive
Preparing a welcome meal for refugees immediately upon arrival
Accompanying to medical appointments and advocating for healthcare needs
Helping with English skills
Financial education
Job development
Transportation assistance for situations where public transportation isn't available
Community Guide to help refugees become more acclimated with the community
Co-Sponsor Teams also offer many benefits to the congregation they are paired with, including cross-cultural missions, hands-on volunteer opportunities, and a way to truly show God's love for all people.