<p> Tesfa Program Founder, Selam, speaks with Sophia Benalfew, Executive Director of Ethiopian Community in Seattle (ECS), about COVID-19's impact on the local Ethiopian community and ESC's efforts to support its members.  Learn More- Amharic is one of the official languages spoken in Ethiopia. "Tesfa" translates to "hope" in Amharic. <a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.ecseattle.org/" target= "_blank" rel="noopener">Ethiopian Community in Seattle (ECS)</a> is a nonprofit supporting Ethiopians in the Seattle area.</p> <p> About Us: The Tesfa Program is a grassroots initiative that supports Ethiopian immigrants and refugees. Visit <a class="in-cell-link" href="http://www.tesfaprogram.org/" target="_blank" rel= "noopener">www.tesfaprogram.org</a> to learn more about our work! The Southeast Seattle Education Coalition (SESEC) is our nonprofit fiscal sponsor. Donate and support our community work <a class= "in-cell-link" href="https://www.sesecwa.org/tesfa-program/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here.</a>  This project was funded by King County Public Health COO.</p>

Episode 6: Ethiopians Aiding Ethiopia

When people immigrate from Ethiopia, "the land of 13 months of sunshine,” to Seattle, they expect rain while seeking opportunity in the U.S. 

But when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the local Ethiopian community struggled to understand how to navigate social services. 

Founded by Selam Misgano, the Tesfa Program is a grassroots initiative created to help Amharic speakers better understand the info and resources available. 

Join us as we listen to community stories on 13 Months of Sunshine.