Last month, upon hearing about the newly arrived asylum-seekers, Albany County Legislator Chairman Andrew Joyce organized a donation drive to provide critical supplies to asylum-seekers settling in Albany County. On Monday, July 10th, Chairman Joyce was joined by his colleagues Deputy Majority Leader Lynne Lekakis and Legislator Matthew Peter, to deliver several large bins of necessities including hygiene products, clothing, and other essentials to the Refugee and Immigration Support Services of Emmaus (RISSE).
RISSE, a local nonprofit focuses on helping immigrants and their families adjust to their new lives in the United States, has been critical in providing aid to the newly arrived migrants. Through this effort, the Legislature was able to deliver on America's promise to act on the opportunity to serve those in need, and to provide all with equitable opportunity.
Chairman Joyce established this effort in response to recent unfortunate and callous exchanges regarding immigrants trying to establish themselves in America. His commitment to opening the doors of Albany to asylum-seekers who need assistance further expresses his dedication to establishing Albany County as a safe space.
…
Albany County Chairman Andrew Joyce
"Many immigrant individuals and families rely on the generosity of the community that they are entering. I called on my colleagues and the community to support this effort in delivering essential items to families who need extra support while they get on their feet here in Albany, and I’m grateful for their generosity. Albany County is a welcoming place and I am honored to be able to help."
Albany County Deputy Majority Leader Lynne Lekakis
"I’m proud to be able to help support asylum-seekers as they look to start anew in Albany County. Anything we can do to ensure access to supportive resources we should be doing."
Albany County Legislator Matthew Peter
"Government is judged by how well we help those in need and I’m proud to join my fellow legislators in making sure that asylum-seekers coming to Albany County have what they need to integrate and thrive."
