Several months after she arrived in New Jersey seeking political asylum, Najla Khudr is preparing salads and soups from Syria at a cafe that raises money to help refugees and other political asylum seekers.

Khudr is among a handful of chefs preparing traditional dishes from their native countries at Global Grace Cafe, located in a quilt room in the Reformed Church of Highland Park. Khudr, who had worked in the insurance business in Dubai for years, said being in the kitchen and cooking for dozens of people wasn’t something she had imagined she would do in the United States, but said that she was grateful for the chance.

“I never thought I could do it, but when people like food, I make it,” said Khudr,who moved to Clifton when she first arrived in October and now lives in Highland Park. “I like to help this church, because they help us.” read more.

 

Asbury Park Press

Interfaith-RISE is a program of the Reformed Church of Highland Park Affordable Housing corporation, a non-profit, 501(c)3 organization that provides affordable housing, supportive services, and connection to meaningful community to low-income individuals and families in central New Jersey. All RCHP-AHC projects are non-discriminatory and are open to the public. Learn more at rchp-ahc.org.

Office Locations

Highland Park Office:
19 S. 2nd Ave
Highland Park, NJ 08904
732-357-0590

I-RISE South Office:

2384 E. Landis Ave
Vineland, NJ 08361
732-357-0590