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Refugees in Buffalo learning valuable life skills

Chris Caya WBFO News

Some refugees on Buffalo's West Side had the chance to meet a top state official on Wednesday. Lt. Governor Kathy Hochul visited about 50 women learning the craft of textile arts at Stitch Buffalo.

Afterward, Hochul said, that the class is a great way for recent immigrants to also learn how to fit in to the community.

"Coming here is a start and it's also really clever because the money that they earn, women will always invest back in to their communities and their families. So, they're supporting, with the little bit of money they earn here selling their products, in to the West Side shops and restaurants that are now emerging," Hochul said.   

Stitch Buffalo was founded and is run by Dawne Hoeg and Shelby Deck. They have been volunteering their time for nearly two years to help refugees. Hoeg says they are seeking funding to offer more classes and find a permanent home for the workshop.