West Wagga San Isidore Refugee Committee member Joan Saboisky has been welcoming refugees to Wagga since the 1970s.
She has provided assistance to people from Vietnam, El Salvadore, Yugoslavia, Iran, Afghanistan and Africa.
“Every time a new wave of refugees come we are on a steep learning curve about the culture,” she said.
“The more welcome and support that families receive, the better the settlement outcomes.”
But funds are limited so the Holy Trinity Church in Ashmont is coinciding the arrival of their new Allen’s Church Organ with a benefit concert for the committee.
Father Gerard Ryan praises the work of the Mrs Saboisky and said the proceeds of the concert will be put to good use by the committee.
“Some of these refugees come from horrendous situations so the compassion that comes from within this community needs to be highlighted,” he said.
Godlieve Ghavalas and Jim and Carmen Clinch will perform on the organ on February 27 from 7.30pm in the church.
Tickets are $20 each and can be obtained from Holy Trinity Primary School.
