Enock is granted asylum!

Ellen's banner spreading the good news

Today is a happy day at our house. Enock, our housemate, was granted asylum. It has been an arduous journey for him. On top of worrying about his case, he had to worry about his family in his home country. A few weeks ago, he was injured in an auto accident and suffered a fractured vertebrae. Since then he has been walking around in a body brace.

Our community pulled together to support him through this difficult time. Various RHHP residents helped him with meals because of his limited mobility. Joel and Tim drove him to medical appointments in DC and Joel drove him to Arlington for his asylum hearing a couple of weeks ago and then again today to pick up his decision. Members of NBMC and his home congregation brought him meals. He received a stream of visitors from his congregation who came bearing groceries and prepared meals. Sarah organized an online fund raiser to gather money to help his children return to school.

Thanks also to the ASHN folks for raising the funds to cover the rent. NBC Universal also chipped in some funds for the stipend. (not sure how they got connected but it probably has to do with Human Rights First)

Vanessa Allyn, Managing attorney of the Refugee Protection Program at Human Rights First; Isabel Toolan, his case worker also from Human Rights First; and Malika Levarlet and Reid Whitten, Enock's fabulous pro bono attorneys from Sheppard Mullin Richter and Hampton are reasons for Enock's success today. It has truly has been a community effort with a fitting outcome for a wonderful housemate.