El Refugio: Latino community celebrates culture

Newton - Sussex County’s Latino community recently feted family, friends, culture and community with a costume party. The alcohol-free event was sponsored by Sussex County’s Latino outreach center, El Refugio, which is a program of the Center for Prevention and Counseling. It was held at Christ Episcopal Church in Newton. More than 200 people attended, many of whom were wearing costumes or traditional dress from their native country. Among the countries represented were Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Dominican Republic, Uruguay and Mexico. Attendees delighted in dining on flavorful homemade dishes. Men, women and children kicked up their heels, dancing to music that played into the evening. “The Family Recreation Committee planned this gala to give the Latino community a chance to gather together in festive surroundings and promote the tremendous diversity of the people who embody it,” said Father Griner, one of the driving forces behind the creation of El Refugio. “I’d say they achieved their goal in grand style.” El Refugio is the outcome of a collaborative effort between Christ Episcopal Church, Center for Prevention and Counseling, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Sussex County, Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Paterson, Blessed Kateri, Sussex County Community College and the American Institute of Hispanic Heritage. It is funded by a grant received from the New Jersey Department of State, Office of Faith Based Initiatives. El Refugio is located at 19 Church Street Newton. For more information on the services and programs offered through El Refugio contact Ygnacio Pe-a at 973-383-5099.