C0-Sponsored by the UU Social Justice and The New School of Kennebunk

September 26, 2008

”Dinner for Noora & Afef'” a benefit supper of Middle Eastern delicacies, was held on Friday, October 10, at the First Parish Unitarian Universalist Church, 114 Main Street, Kennebunk, Maine.

Co-sponsored by First Parish and The New School, dinner included tabouleh, stuffed grape leaves, hummus, baba ghannouj, falafel, and baklava (donated by the Kennubunk House of Pizza), along with traditional lentil, cucumber and yogurt dishes and some American dishes.

Proceeds from the dinner supported “No More Victims,” the non-profit organization which brought six-year-old Noora and her father, Afef, to Portland. Noora is receiving reconstructive surgery for head injuries she suffered from US military fire in Iraq while riding in a car with her family. Medical costs are being donated by Maine Medical Center and housing is being provided by the Ronald McDonald House in Portland.

Noora and Afef were at the dinner, as well their Maine hosts Susi Eggenberger and Doug Rogers of Arundel, and many of the Maine people who helped as translators. Using the English he learned since arriving in Maine this summer, Afef shared some of his experience with dinner goers.

The October event was the second fundraiser at First Parish in Kennebunk, and one of several in the region. Speaking of these endeavors, Afef said, “I do not know the people who are helping Noora, but I thank them very, very much for helping my daughter.”

“No More Victims” raises funds to staff and operate its center in Amman, Jordan; to provide for evacuation from Iraq; to help with the medical expenses of the families left in Iraq, and to finance travel, passport, and visa expenses. For those wishing to help and were unable to attend the dinner, checks may be made out to “No More Victims.” Please put “Portland Maine Noora” in the memo line and mail checks to: The International Humanities Center, P.O. Box 923, Malibu CA 90625.

Press interested in finding out more about Cole Miller, No More Victims and how local communities can get involved are invited to contact Jonathan Hahn at 301-770-0550 jonathan@caplancommunications.com.

Snapshots of the Effort: (click on image to enlarge pictures)

Photo credit: Susi Eggenberger