Over 100 asylee students and their families attended a welcome event at MCNDHS on a December weekend. CYD and the school co-hosted the event and provided the students with urgently needed winter coats and care packages with items including breakfast cereal, snacks, and toothbrushes.

“We’re trying to create a sense of community for the many students who are new to the school, the city, and the country. We want to envelop them with support,” said Assistant Executive Director Margaret Aylward, who leads CYD’s staff at MCNDHS.

CYD is continuing to match students with warm clothing, and the need is ongoing! Donations of new coats and nonperishable food can be dropped off at MCNDHS, 240 Second Avenue.