Let Saheeda Stay

Kalamazoo First Congregational UCC is providing sanctuay for Saheeda, a member of the community fighting to stop her deportation.  Through her ongoing work with some of the most vulnerable members of this community Saheeda has shown that not only does she consider this her home, but she contributes to it many times over. This deportation would not only be a great personal loss but a crippling blow to Kalamazoo as a whole. Thirteen years ago Saheeda came to the US with her children. Since then, Saheeda has worked hard, for her children and for those she cares for. In 2012, both of her children applied for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, DACA for short.  With the help of DACA and the Kalamazoo Promise, Saheeda’s children were able to attend college. Saheeda was proud when her daughter Lareb graduated from Western Michigan University.  In an unfortunate turn of events Lareb passed away the same summer in a car accident. She is buried right here in Kalamazoo. One of the things that give her motivation and joy is visiting Lareb’s grave every morning. Saheeda has dedicated most of her time here in Kalamazoo giving as much as she can. For almost a decade, she has worked at a group providing care to the developmentally disabled. The nature of her job is such that Saheeda has spent an immense amount of time building a foundation of trust with these individuals. They look forward to seeing her every day. The amount of affection these individuals have is comparable only to that of family. Ever since Bethany Christian Services started refugee operations in Kalamazoo, Saheeda has had a vital role in the group home for new refugee arrivals. These teenage refugees come from adverse backgrounds and many have even lost their families. Saheeda has a specialized set of life experiences that help her relate to these kids. She has lived through many of the hardships they face or have overcome.  The children all respect her authority and treat her as if she was their own mother. If she were to get deported, not only would she lose the comfort of her daughter’s grave, but also her son, her remaining blood family. Kalamazoo is her one true home. This community has done amazing things for her family and we are asking for your support one more time. Kalamazoo needs Saheeda. These funds will be principally used to offset the cost of the legal/advocacy battle to keep Saheeda with her family here in Kalamazoo. After these needs are met, additional funds may be used to make sure she is safe and comfortable while in sanctuary - making sure she has access to medical care and other therapies, and providing for her physical and spiritual needs. Your donation will reach Saheeda through Kalamazoo First Congregational UCC, where Becky Ramsey is the church administrator. Due to Sheeda's confinement to the church, Becky will be in charge of administering this funds to adress saheedas needs.