Most Australians are unaware of the challenges that face refugees who live in their communities. Refugee Week is a national activity that involves conversation, education, and engagement about what it means to be a refugee in Australian society. St Vincent De Paul outreach support worker Leandro Mendes spoke with The Echo about refugee communities in the northern rivers and the need to embrace the many positive contributions they make.

Read more: http://www.echo.net.au/2014/06/restoring-hope-refugees-community/