The Congolese Community Of Scranton

The Congolese Community of Scranton (CCS) was founded at the end of 2016 by Ushu Mukelo and his father, Mwenebatu Mukelo, to address the unique challenges faced by Congolese refugees resettling in Scranton, Pennsylvania. This community traces its origins to families from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) who fled their homeland due to prolonged conflict and political instability. Many of these families endured years in refugee camps across East and Southern Africa, including Uganda, Kenya, Zambia, South Africa, and Rwanda, before being admitted to the United States through the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program. In 2024, with the support of Ornella Akimana, Heritier Dunia, and Digne Larkine Mbinga, the community was incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a focus on making integration for refugee families easier in the long run. Scranton became their new home, offering safety and opportunities but also presenting significant cultural and logistical hurdles.

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Recognizing the need for a unified platform, Ushu and his colleagues established a nonprofit to coordinate resources and address collective needs. Since its inception, CCS has served as a central organization for the community, which today comprises 105 families. The group’s primary mission is to foster a sense of belonging while addressing critical needs such as housing, education, employment, and language access. Over the years, CCS has become a lifeline for members navigating the complexities of life in a new country.

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A hallmark of CCS's work is its commitment to empowering marginalized groups within the community, particularly women. With 45% of Congolese households in Scranton headed by single mothers, CCS has developed initiatives aimed at providing resources and opportunities for these families. These efforts include English language classes, interpretation services, and advocacy for driver’s license access to improve mobility and independence.

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The organization also emphasizes cultural preservation and community engagement. CCS regularly organizes events to celebrate Congolese heritage, including traditional music and dance, fostering pride and unity among its members. The CCS Community Garden, coordinated by Treasurer Digne Larkine Mbinga, serves as both a cultural touchstone and a practical resource, offering families access to fresh produce while encouraging sustainable practices. The garden reflects Congolese traditions of community farming and mutual aid, providing a space for members to connect with their heritage while fostering collaboration and environmental stewardship.
 

In recent years, CCS has expanded its efforts to include relationships with local institutions such as the City of Scranton, the Scranton Area Foundation, The University of Scranton, NeighborWorks NEPA, Scranton Chamber of Commerce and the National Health Corps. These relationships have enabled the community to secure grants from the Scranton Area Foundation and the Weinberg Foundation for essential programs and connect members with literacy support, healthcare, educational, immigration and social services. Key initiatives, like the proposal for a community van to address transportation challenges, reflect CCS’s innovative approach to solving systemic issues.

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From its humble beginnings, the Congolese Community of Scranton has grown into a beacon of resilience and solidarity. Through dedicated leadership and grassroots efforts, CCS continues to uplift its members while contributing to the rich tapestry of Scranton’s diverse community. Special thanks go to Maggie Martinelli at the Scranton Area Foundation, Attorney Robert Kelly of MBK LLP, Bob Durkin of the Scranton Chamber of Commerce, Julie S. Cohen of the University of Scranton, Frank Dubas of the Garden of Cedar, and Patrick McMahon of One Point Scranton, who have supported CCS morally, materially, financially, and through various forms of support.