To the Editor:

It seems like you can’t turn on the news or open the paper without seeing something about immigration. But what do we really know about the immigration process and the folks in our area who are undocumented residents? In order to educate ourselves and all people in the tri-town area, the Mattapoisett Congregational Church will host a community outreach evening on the topic of "Immigration in Greater New Bedford" on Wednesday, August 30 from 6:30-8 p.m. It will be held in the church hall at 27 Church Street.

This is not a political event. As a church we are called by the Gospel to feed the hungry, visit the sick, clothe the naked and welcome the stranger. We will hear about the living situations faced by many fellow human beings in our area.

Our speakers will be: Helena DaSilva-Hughes, Executive Director of the Immigrants Assistance Center (IAC); Corinne Williams, Executive Director of the Community Economic Development Center (CEDC); Brian Pastori, AssistantmDirector CEDC; and Miriam Watkins, CEDC.

Some people ask, “Why don’t they just become citizens? Do they work? Or do they pay taxes?” You may be surprised at much of the information you will hear. I know I was! So please plan to come, get the facts and ask your questions.

Admission is free but we ask that you bring school supplies for children in need to be distributed through the CEDC and for our annual collection for students at Carlos Pacheco School in New Bedford.

For the missions committee Mattapoisett Congregational Church,

Susan Grosart, Chairperson

508 748-0180

or cell 508 789-6279

Church: 508 758-2671