By J1 Reporter Macy Preheim

Without the support of families, what would life be like for refugees? People who face persecution are often forced to flee their home countries to escape harm. Tom and Margaret Hoarty, past Marian parents, run a non-profit organization called Omaha Welcomes the Stranger also known as OWS.

 This organization helps migrant families who have fled their native countries and arrived in Omaha, NE. Talking about refugees often sparks controversy. With many differing opinions, some of which can be more hurtful than others. As Margaret Hoarty says, “when you listen to the news, refugees are described as dehumanizing.”

This is the reason why the couple wanted to start a nonprofit organization in November of 2022. Currently, the organization has 12 refugee families living in the shelter and 9 refugee families that have moved into apartments. 

Since running the organization, they have had the opportunity to meet a diverse range of people from various backgrounds. In fact, the couple states that the best part of running their nonprofit was the meaningful relationships that they have built with the refugees. “Meeting someone changes your mind and heart,”  Hoarty said. 

Across communities, families are stepping up to support refugees, offering both emotional and practical support. This is so that they can have assistance in rebuilding their lives in a new country. However, it is not just families—many individuals also dedicate their time to helping those in need.

For example, Ms. Halli Tripe, an English teacher at Marian, worked at a legal immigrant clinic. This clinic helped Ukrainian refugees extend their temporary status in the United States. “They were very positive. The Ukrainian people were very appreciative of the help,” Tripe said.

 Just months after relocating to Omaha, Ukrainian refugees are embedded within their community. “If you saw them on the streets, you would not know that they are refugees,” Tripe said.

Overall, Omaha as a whole benefits from the contributions of refugees from all around the world. Through the diffusion of their culture, language, food and traditions, the community gains valuable opportunities to learn and grow. Refugees contribute to enriching the lives of everyone around them.