Donating to CRIS
Donating to CRIS
In the past, our largest recurring donation request was for Welcome Kit items for newly arrived refugee families (household goods donations, furniture, or coats). With the U.S. refugee admissions program essentially paused for the foreseeable future, we are no longer in need of these items.
Currently, our greatest in-kind donation needs are for food security for those we serve—namely, grocery gift cards and complete pantry staple kits (see details below for both). This is the most tangible way to welcome refugees and immigrants to our community through CRIS at this time.
As always, financial donations and personal fundraising efforts are greatly appreciated as we continue to provide essential services in our community.
Financial Donations
Financial donations made to CRIS are stewarded wisely and may be used to:
Provide emergency rental assistance
Ensure food security
Maintain fair wages for CRIS staff
Support building operations and maintenance
Continue offering a service when funding is cut
Pantry Staple Kits
A CRIS Pantry Staple Kit is a sturdy box/tote full of essential cooking items for a newcomer family.
Kits can be assembled individually or as a collaborative effort with neighbors, co-workers, faith community members, and more. Complete kits can be dropped off at the CRIS office (4645 Executive Drive) on Wednesdays between 10 AM and 6 PM.
Follow the step-by-step guide below.
Grocery Grams
Grocery Grams are grocery gift cards donated to refugee families facing acute food insecurity. Digital gift cards can be purchased online and sent directly to CRIS’s Engagement Team at food@cris-ohio.org, or physical gift cards can be mailed or dropped off at our office (4645 Executive Drive).
Your donation provides immediate relief, with $100 typically covering a week’s worth of basic pantry items for one family of four.