Skidmore Student Lends a Hand to Local Refugees
When Rula Issa '17 came to the United States in 1998 seeking refuge from the conflicts
in Bosnia and Herzegovina, she was warmly welcomed by Americans who sought to help
her and her family assimilate in America and settle comfortably in their new home.
Recently, as Issa perceived that xenophobic attitudes toward refugees have been strengthening
around the world, she yearned to give back to others the kindness shown to her and
her family when they needed support.
With that in mind, Issa spearheaded a winter clothing drive at Skidmore to help refugees
settling in the nearby Capital District. After consulting with Parker Diggory, director
of religious and spiritual life, she decided to partner with the Muslim Soup Kitchen
Project and local mosques in the Albany and capital region to identity refugees in
need.
Issa's project raised $600 in cash, which was used to purchase clothing items for
children. In addition, she collected two carloads of winter clothes from collection
boxes that she had placed around campus. These were taken to the Al-Hidaya Mosque
for distribution throughout the Capital District.
“I am thankful to all the people who gave so generously and offered their support,”
Issa said. “I hope everyone will continue to think of our refugees over the holidays
and through the winter months.”
