Locals looking to spread a little neighborly love need look no further than Santa Monica's Annenberg Community Beach House. Come April 14, the beachfront spot is playing host to "Families Welcome," a free public event organized to extend a warm embrace to refugee families and fresh faces in Los Angeles County. The shindig, chalk-full of all-ages activities, aims to educate participants on how to best welcome those new to our sprawling metropolis.
The event is a joint effort with the regional nonprofit Miry's List, which has made a name for itself by smoothening the integration process for refugees. According to a Santa Monica government announcement, the gathering kicks off at 2:00 p.m. and features Rabia Ahmadi, hailing from Afghanistan and living the Los Angeles dream, who will set the stage with her opening remarks.
What's more, Grammy-nominated artist Kymberly Stewart is slated to deliver a musical performance soon after. And for those little ones in tow, Miry Whitehill, who founded Miry's List, will captivate audiences with a children's book reading followed by a discussion on the theme of hospitality and inclusion.
The hands-on fun doesn't stop there. Attendees can while away the hours at different stations, writing welcome letters, snapping up free family portraits, and crafting friendship bracelets and art pieces. The day is to culminate with "BREAD BREAD," a community gathering involving Afghan desserts, tea, and the simple yet profound act of breaking bread together – all courtesy of the Ashgary family, who themselves are part of the Miry's List network.
While the event is gratis, organizers suggest a donation of $10 per person to keep Miry's List's vital programs afloat. Those planning to swing by can RSVP through the Eventbrite link provided. Eagle Rock's Miry's List continues to help newly arrived refugees find their footing with language, employment support, and the kindness of community volunteers. The Beach House, accessible for all, ensures that no one misses out on this occasion to sow seeds of friendship and solidarity. For more information or if special accommodations are needed, the good folks at the Annenberg Community Beach House ask you to dial Guest Services at (310) 458-4904.
