New Roots spiked with chilis

James Lenton for the IRC	Oct 3 (1 day ago)
to me

Help refugees heal with New Roots. Donate now » Dear IRC Supporter, Ah Lun, a newly arrived refugee from Myanmar, tells people that the secret to his delicious Tom Yum soup is crushing the hot chilis before slicing them.  But I know the real secret ingredient – it’s you.   Supporters like you helped the IRC build a farm oasis in the Bronx called Drew Gardens, where newly arrived refugees like Ah Lun reconnect through the IRC’s New Roots program with crops and food they farmed back home.  At Drew Gardens they find peace and grow hope.  The Newman’s Own Foundation has generously offered to double your gift to New Roots.  But time is running out to participate in this match. To help create more new beginnings like Ah Lun’s across the United States, donate now. Growing up in Myanmar, Ah Lun loved turning chili peppers and vegetables into nutritious meals.  But one day he was captured by soldiers intent on forcing him to join the army and take up arms.  On foot through the jungle and then by train, he escaped to Malaysia.  Six years later, he arrived in New York City.  Newman’s Own Foundation will match your donation to help refugees in America put down new roots at IRC-run community gardens and farms. 100% of your donation will be matched, up to a total of $45,000. Through New Roots, Ah Lun’s passion for farming and cooking helped him land a dream job at one of Manhattan’s renowned restaurants.  During his visit to Drew Gardens earlier this year, star chef David Burke met Ah Lun and the two quickly connected through the international language of food.  After passing an interview with flying colors, today Ah Lun is a sous chef with David Burke Kitchen. New Roots gives refugees like Ah Lun a path to employment and self-sufficiency.  New Roots gardens are also a place to heal.  I can see happiness and optimism on Ah Lun’s face the minute we arrive at Drew Gardens.  New Roots is about so much more than helping refugees grow fresh produce.  Grow a dream with us.  Please help refugees make a fresh start in the United States by making a donation to the IRC’s New Roots program today. Your gift will be doubled dollar for dollar. Thank you for all you do to support our lifesaving work. Sincerely, James LentonExecutive Director, IRC New York P.S. More than ninety cents of every dollar we spend is used to support IRC programs. Funds raised in excess of the match will support the IRC where needed most. And remember: If you contribute today, your gift will go twice as far, thanks to the Newman's Own Foundation.