Refugees Becoming Charlotteans

Cira Ponce (center) visits with two newly settled families from Burma, 2008. Photo by Nancy Pierce, Principal Exhibit Photographer.

They're very strong and resilient. They offer us a tremendous opportunity to learn from their traditions and culture. I've been blessed to work with so many wonderful families.

- Cira Ponce, Refugee Resettlement Office, Catholic Social Services

Cira Ponce, a Cuban native who grew up in Charlotte, assists refugees as they settle into the community and become self-reliant.

Her organization, Catholic Social Services, helps refugees find housing, furniture, jobs and transportation, as well as helping with English classes and navigating social services.

The Charlotte office of Catholic Social Services directs one of several refugee-aid efforts run by Charlotte churches. Since 1975, Catholic Social Services has worked with refugees forced to flee their native countries, and granted asylum by the U.S. government.