Help support Venezuelan family in Flathead Valley

Hello! I am fundraising to support a family of 5 refugees from Venezuela that we are sponsoring through the humanitarian parole program. Finally, after 7 months, the paperwork with the US government is moving forward and we hope that their travel will be authorized in the next few days. We hope to raise funds and identify a circle to help support them in the first few months while their work permits are approved and they are learning how to be here.

I was fortunate to be a high school exchange student in Austria with a family who opened their home to me and literally changed my life, exposing me to cultural diversity, new experiences, and opening my eyes to the power of community. I want to pass the goodwill on to this family that needs help. Their cousin, located in Kalispell, working with the Valley Neighbors organization, reached out to ask for sponsors to bring his extended family here and out of the turmoil and economic challenges they currently face. This family has temporarily found refuge in Columbia, but are still struggling with basic needs, with only one adult currently able to find consistent work.

Funding will be used to support their travel, work permits, rent for 2-a few months, an initial stock of food, possibly an inexpensive vehicle, school supplies, gas, and miscellaneous household expenses. Initial support is expected to cost around $12,000 total for the family. If things go better than we think and there are extra funds, we would donate those to Valley Neighbors to help more of the family when their paperwork is approved.

We have purchased tickets and they will arrive early March! A 24hour journey instead of 1-3 weeks just to cross the Darien Gap! Their cousin will pick them up at the airport and is very excited to be reunited. Next up is securing a house for them and then getting the basic furniture, warm clothes, and pantry, and figuring out the next steps!