Hello. Sarah still here. Given the persistent turmoil and destruction going on across the world, millions have been displaced and are seeking refuge. In Western MA, the numbers of people from many other countries and experiences have increased, and CNA has done a remarkable job adapting and expanding. This requires more staff, sites, equipment, materials, money, and dedication. We need communal and individual support to help keep CNA the vital organization it is, providing avenues for immigrants and refugees to learn English, understand parts of the "system," to offer a sense of being in a safe place, and to work toward independence.

Offering support to CNA, whether via volunteering or offering financial donations, helps to create a richer community where people with very different experiences, cultural backgrounds, careers, knowledge, gifts, and survival skills.

As you know, I'm committing to write 30 poems in the month of November. I'm also chairing the event, so I have the opportunity to connect with our amazing writers in the Northampton area and beyond (but not quite to infinity). Please consider pushing yourself a bit with the amount donation, if that feels right to you. Like a fundraising race or walk where donors commit to a certain amount per mile, you could donate the equivalent of a dollar or two a day.

For me, I can slip into feeling helpless about the world's state, our country's state, and even local conflicts. Acting in the form of writing, leading, sharing, and being open (but not intrusive) to interacting with people I don't know. Poetry is cool. You'll get a mediocre, so-so (that sems better than mediocre), decent, good, or magnificent poem in your email box daily.