The Center Launches New Fund to Support Local Refugee Community
UTICA, NY – The Center recently announced the creation of The Center Assistance Fund at the Community Foundation of Herkimer & Oneida Counties to support refugees' essential needs, including housing, food, clothing, healthcare, and case management services, as The Center navigates organizational funding shifts.
For Immediate Release (Download)
May 14, 2025
UTICA, NY – The Center recently announced the creation of The Center Assistance Fund at the Community Foundation of Herkimer & Oneida Counties to support refugees' essential needs, including housing, food, clothing, healthcare, and case management services, as The Center navigates organizational funding shifts. Contributions made to the fund are crucial and will ensure that the organization can continue to integrate individuals and families into the community, without the financial instability that would otherwise compromise their well-being.
All donations made to The Center Assistance Fund will be matched dollar-for-dollar, up to $50,000, helping to reach the fundraising goal of $100,000. The money raised through this fund will not only provide immediate relief but will also foster long-term sustainability for refugee services and programs.
Businesses and community members are encouraged to donate in one of two ways:
•Directly to the fund online at foundationhoc.org/thecenter
•By Check: Donations by check must be made out to The Community Foundation with the fund name (The Center Assistance Fund) listed in the memo line. Checks can be mailed to 2608 Genesee Street, Utica, NY 13502.
“In the face of ongoing federal funding cuts and increasingly restrictive policies, the establishment of this local fund is not just timely — it's vital,” said Shelly Callahan, executive director of The Center. “This support will help ensure that refugees resettled in our region continue to have access to the essential services, resources, and community connections they need to rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.”
“We are happy that one of the Community Foundation’s tools, the establishment of a charitable fund, is able to help one of our local nonprofit partners through uncertain times,” said Alicia Fernandez Dicks, president/CEO of the Community Foundation of Herkimer & Oneida Counties. “The Center’s services and programming for refugees are so important to our community and ensuring that they can continue without fail was top of mind when creating this fund.”
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Founded in 1981, the Mohawk Valley Resource Center for Refugees (assumed name The Center) is committed to develop the products and services that enable us in building community with many cultures.
Founded in 1952, The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties envisions a vibrant region with opportunity for all. In fulfillment of its “Engage. Invest. Lead” mission, The Community Foundation has transformed decades of donor generosity into $150 million invested in social impact initiatives, collaborative leadership, grantmaking and scholarships. Find out more at foundationhoc.org or call 315-735-8212.