To the UTC community,

        Everyone is aware that the war in Kosovo has caused thousands of
ethnic Albanians to seek refugee status in other countries.  Although the
greater number of these individuals will choose to remain in Europe, some
will inevitably come to the United States.  Some will even come to the
Tennessee Valley: displaced, alone, strangers in a strange land.  This is
where we can help.  Bridge Refugee and Sponsorship Services, Inc., a
Chattanooga based organization, provides a vital connection between refugees
and area sponsers.
        Bridge seeks sponsorship from area churches, groups, and
indivuiduals.  These sponsors assist the arriving refugees with the many
tasks necessary to establishing themselves in the United States, such as
providing initial material needs and filling out necessary paperwork (Social
Security, Health Dept. forms, school enrollment, etc.) as well as acclimating
the refugee families to the community.  Sponsors also assist refugees in
finding employment (contrary to myth, many refugees are well educated
professionals, often multi-lingual.)
        Anyone interested in obtaining more information about assisting
refugees coming to Chattanooga can contact Anne Curtis at 624-2710, or write:


Bridge Refugee Service
                                                                        3641
Brainerd Rd. Suite H

Chattanooga, TN 37411

Thanks,
Pamela Scott