Lockland, Ohio – In the heart of Lockland, a small yet vibrant village in Ohio, the Valley Interfaith Resource Center has become a lifeline for a burgeoning immigrant community, providing critical support to those seeking refuge and a fresh start in America. As the number of asylum seekers and immigrants swells, local resources are being stretched thin, prompting both state and federal offices to take notice and offer support.
Lockland’s challenges in accommodating its diverse new residents range from employment to integration, reflecting a microcosm of a national dialogue on immigration. The community’s recent influx includes individuals like Khalidou Sy, a courageous father from Mauritania who, after escaping severe discrimination and threats in his homeland, is eager to contribute to the societal fabric of the United States.
“I really want to be a part of society and contribute to the development and adding to the mix and culture of the United States. That’s what makes America great. Everybody brings their different colors, and we shake it all together and come up with something different. That’s why we all want to come in,” Sy said.
The Valley Interfaith Resource Center, a cornerstone of community assistance in Lockland for over six decades, has expanded its role beyond its original mission as a food pantry. Today, it serves as a crucial conduit connecting immigrants to essential services such as job training and addiction treatment. John Keuffer, CEO of the center, praised the newcomers’ eagerness to integrate and contribute.
“They are able-bodied. They want a better life. They want to work for it. I’ve not seen an incident here; our team has not seen an incident here with anybody that would say otherwise,” Keuffer stated, highlighting the mutual benefits of inclusion and community support.
Hamilton County has recognized the importance of supporting such initiatives, earmarking substantial funding through Community Development Block Grants. The county plans to allocate $68,000 to support the food pantry services at the Valley Interfaith Resource Center and an additional $100,000 to the Immigrant and Refugee Law Center, aiding families in navigating the complexities of asylum claims and work authorization processes.
The support from local government dovetails with increased attention from higher levels of administration. Governor Mike DeWine’s office has signaled an openness to bolster support for communities like Lockland that are on the front lines of this issue. Meanwhile, outreach to federal representatives continues as local leaders seek to forge pathways for further assistance and policy advocacy.
The challenges are significant, particularly with the lengthy waits many asylum seekers face before they can legally work. The process, which allows migrants to apply for work authorization six months after arrival, often extends into protracted delays due to bureaucratic backlogs. As more individuals like Sy arrive seeking safety and opportunity, the pressure on services and the urgency for efficient processing grows.
In Lockland, the story unfolding is one of community resilience and the enduring spirit of welcome that defines much of America’s history with its immigrant populations. The efforts by the Valley Interfaith Resource Center and the backing of both local and state governments highlight a proactive approach to inclusion—a testament to the collective endeavor to weave new strands into the social and cultural tapestry of the community.