PARMA, Ohio — Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine’s office convened a summit of 60 organizations Thursday at St. Vladimir Grand Hall in Parma, as the state prepares to potentially welcome refugees from Ukraine.
DeWine called on the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services to bring together multiple organizations “who could play a role in the relocation of Ukrainian families” in northeast Ohio.
DeWine’s office noted that several organizations are ready to lend a hand if called upon.
“We are gathered today because we are concerned about the people of Ukraine. We are concerned about families who have been forced out of their homes, their neighborhoods, and their country because of the unprovoked, brutal invasion of Ukraine by Vladimir Putin and his military,” said DeWine. “But we are here to get started, to plan, to get ready, and to brainstorm so we are prepared if, as a state, we are asked to help support those families.”
Several panel discussions occurred, one on resettlement process, including areas such as housing, employment, and preparing arrivals for cultural differences. A second panel included a discussion on stories of how refugees can give back to the community.
“None of us know if, or when, we might be called upon to provide assistance,” said Ohio Department of Jobs and Family Services Director Matt Damschroder. “But that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t be prepared, so Ohio can be the most effective in helping any potential refugees. This is the perfect time and opportunity to bring together the many organizations that could play a role in the relocation of Ukrainian families.”
According to the United Nations, more than 3 million refugees have fled Ukraine since Feb. 24.
While the federal government handles requests for resettlement, it is up to states and local organizations to help get refugees acclimated to their new home.
Soon after the conflict between Ukraine and Russia started, Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb, Cuyahoga County Executive Armond Budish and Global Cleveland President Joe Cimperman said the area was ready to welcome those needing to resettle.
“We strongly condemn this attack that will result in the loss of innocent lives and is a direct threat to the freedom of so many,” Bibb, Budish and Cimperman said in a joint statement. “As thousands of individuals are displaced from their homes and livelihoods in the face of war and violence, we want to remind the world that the city of Cleveland and Cuyahoga County, Ohio are here to embrace them with open arms.”