Army’s Help Centre moves into its second year.
The Salvation Army Kuala Lumpur Corps in Malaysia rented a shop in early 2012 in Pudu to open a Help Centre for refugees that continues its assistance today.
According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), more than 100,000 refugees live in Malaysia, with over 90,000 in Myanmar alone. Members of the Chin tribe comprise the majority of Christian refugees in Myanmar. As refugees, individuals can only secure odd jobs in restaurants and construction and often reside with other families in the city because of the minimal income.
With the assistance of UNHCR, The Salvation Army hired a refugee as a full-time community service worker at the Help Centre to sell merchandise, pack food parcels and distribute items to vulnerable individuals and families. In the past year, the Help Centre has distributed food boxes to 61 families, benefitting more than 200 adults and children. The center also offers weekly English classes for youth.
From WAR CRY