My name is Lorraine Harry, and I live in Claremont, California. Recently I've had the chance to get to know the Wawieh family, who moved to our neighboring city of Pomona last fall as refugees from Syria. You can read their moving story as covered by the LA Times: http://graphics.latimes.com/syria-to-california/. If nothing else, watch the 3-minute video embedded in the article.

My daughter Audrey and I currently go to their home once a week. While Audrey plays with the younger kids, I teach English to the mom, Safaa.

The more time I spend with them, the more I fall in love with them. I am struck by the family's warmth and affection. The hospitality they have extended to Audrey and me is something I wish all of you could experience. They are a beautiful family, and I long to be able to help them in any way possible as they adjust to life in a new country after losing everything.

Right now their greatest need is a car for their family of eight. They were given an old car, but it can only be driven one or two miles at a time with lots of fits and starts. Getting all the kids (ranging from ages 5-20) to elementary school, middle school, high school, and community college is a challenge, not to mention trips to the grocery store and job interviews.

I would like to raise money for them to buy a reliable used car. Would you help bless and welcome this family to our country in this practical way? They would really appreciate your help as they begin a new life here, and they are very open to receiving help and kindness from people. Thank you for your generosity!