The main classrooms of RISSE are upstairs in the old church, they need everything – paint, sketchpads, pencils crayons, money. I had very few teachers I loved in my life, but the first thing you see at RISSE is the great love between the children and the teachers, they need no urging to ham for the camera, they loved to be with one of their teachers.

I have permission to use names now, but I’m going to hold off for awhile, there is a sad kind of fear and caution around the refugee children. I want to get to know them, and let them be comfortable with me. I might bring Red on one of my visits, some of these kids come from countries where dogs are not considered pets and never get into homes.

I love taking photos of these faces, they are the truth about refugees and immigrants, they have so much spirit and love. At RISSE, the students learn English and have a place to go after school while they parents work. They seem very happy and engaged there. Next week, some portraits of the chlldren. If you care to donate to RISSE, you can do so here.

I am grateful to know and meet these people, they are the real deal, an Army Of Good unto themselves.