Miry's List Guide to Writing a Welcome Letter

Writing a Welcome Letter Steps to memorable, direct, human connections between resettling refugee families and their new American neighbors.

Tips Before We Begin Handwritten is best

Speak from the heart

Content over length

Art, doodles and drawings are wonderful too!

Step 1: Kick It Off Open up with a warm salutation

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Dear friend,

Hello new friend!

A classic that always works

A jazzier version of the classic "Dear Friend,"

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Hi new neighbor!

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Salaam!

An Arabic word that literally means "peace", but is also used as a general greeting in Arabic and Farsi-speaking countries

Step 2: Warm It Up 1

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Welcome to the United States!

We are so glad that you've arrived

Always the right message

New arrivals have completed an epic journey!

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On behalf of your new american neighbors, welcome!

Speak for the masses

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Welcome to your new home Acknowledge their arrival as a homecoming

Step 3: Acknowledge Their Strength Migration is heroism. Lets remember that.

1 It takes a lot of courage to make a big move like that. I admire this about you.

3 I know this has been a long journey for your family. We are lucky to be your new neighbors.

2 Coming to a new place is really difficult. You have a lot to be proud of.

4 You have jumped into the unknown and it’s taken a lot of special abilities and hard choices to get you here.

Step 4: State An Intention The reason you are writing the letter.

1 We welcome you with open arms and full hearts.

3 We are here. We are people who care about your future.

2 Now you, new friends, are a treasured part of our community.

4 Your family's needs are important and we care deeply about your wellbeing.

Step 5: Seal It With a Kiss 1 With gratitude,

3 I hope to meet you one day soon, Miry, Reuben and Sabo

2 In solidarity, The Whitehill Family

4 With heartfelt congratulations on this important milestone, Miry and your new American friends in Los Angeles

Thought Starters

Final Step: Send it to Miry's List We'll get the letter to a new arrival family on your behalf.

Sent to:

Miry's List 2272 Colorado Blvd. #1170 Los Angeles, CA 90041

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