Welcoming the Stranger has been selected for its work to empower immigrants with language skills that allow them to navigate and lead successful lives
The Times
The Langhorne-based Welcoming the Stranger is one of five nonprofits from across the country chosen for a Renewal Award, an initiative by The Atlantic and Allstate that recognizes and provides grants to local organizations driving positive change in their communities. More than 9,300 nonprofits applied for the competition, which included a public voting period.
As the national conversation about immigration reaches a fever pitch, Welcoming the Stranger has been opening doors for immigrants and refugees in Bucks County for nearly 20 years. The program has been selected for its work to empower immigrants with language skills that allow them to navigate and lead successful lives. Welcoming the Stranger provides free classes in English, computer skills and citizenship preparation.
Founded in 1999, Welcoming the Stranger has taught more than 3,500 students from 100 different countries. Welcoming the Stranger is preparing to celebrate its 20th anniversary this year with several activities — including the release of a cookbook filled with recipes from program participants who have contributed to its immensely popular International Dinners.
In recognition of their work, leaders from Welcoming the Stranger headed to New York on April 3 for an event called the Renewal Summit. In addition to receiving a $20,000 grant, they were surprised on April 2 with an additional year of funding — for a total of $40,000 in funding from Allstate and The Atlantic.
