Patrick Barry, the son of a Cambodian refugee who formerly served migrants and refugees through Catholic Charities, Diocese of Camden, has been given the opportunity to serve all refugees entering the Garden State in his new role as the state’s refugee coordinator.
“I look forward to forging new relationships and partnerships to better serve the refugee and Afghan evacuee population,” says Barry, “and welcoming these new Americans to New Jersey and ensuring they learn all that their new home has to offer.”
Barry notes that one of his goals in his new post – which he began in January – is centered on securing housing for refugees, and “finding more communities that are willing and able to assist in resettling refugees and community partners interested in welcoming the stranger.”
Kevin Hickey, executive director of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Camden, sees Barry as the ideal selection for his newest role.
“He is the archetype for a public servant – thoughtful and curious. Bright and well-read. Integrates and draws from many disciplines. Enthusiastic and always positive. Looks for common ground and the good in people and ideas. Is sustained, ‘fed’, and inspired by his personal experiences as the son of a refugee,” he says. “And, perhaps most importantly, Patrick’s life story and his personal attributes will show people the immense contributions that immigrants and children of immigrants make.”
Adds Barry, “Being a refugee is not a choice, it is survival. A refugee arrives to the United States with what they can carry.” He notes that one arriving in a new country would need help navigating a new community, finding a job and accessing schools. “It sounds like a lot, and it is, but the acculturation of refugees is happening every day.”
‘Welcoming the Stranger’
Barry was born in Philadelphia and raised in New Jersey, earning a bachelor’s degree from Rutgers University, New Brunswick, where he studied political science and international relations and affairs. In 2008, he graduated from the same institution with a master’s degree in public administration.
“I’m the son of a refugee who grew up expecting to be a mix of Charles Barkley and Indiana Jones. It didn’t turn out exactly like that, but I am fortunate to be in the position that I am today,” he says. “As the New Jersey State refugee coordinator, I look forward to serving new Americans and welcoming them to their new home just like how my family was welcomed years ago.”
Barry’s mother and several members of his family fled Cambodia amidst the Khmer Rouge genocide in the 1970s, and wound up arriving as refugees in Philadelphia.
“She lost two of her sisters, her father and countless other friends and family members,” Barry says. “She was resettled in a tiny apartment complex with her grandmother, mother, two brothers and her little sister.”
In the weeks and months that followed, his mother received support from many, though “she had no idea of anyone’s names, who they were or why they were helping.”
In particular, his family recalls English language courses they attended in a church basement. While the two instructors challenged the students to excel, they also provided warm clothes, blankets and other necessities.
“These teachers emphasized the importance of learning English and working hard, engraining in them the importance of self-sufficiency and self-reliance,” Barry says. “It turns out those two tough old ladies were nuns, retired teachers, that helped my family start a new life in the United States. And while my family never knew their names, their generosity and kindness will never be forgotten.”
History of Service
Barry’s career with Catholic Charities, Diocese of Camden, began with him first serving as a case manager in the social service organization’s Veterans Services Program. In 2015, he was named the director of Immigration, Refugees and Migrant Services. He was later named program director of the agency’s Refugee Resettlement Program, and subsequently had the Veterans Services Program transferred to his stewardship.
“He – like so many in Catholic Charities – wore many hats,” Hickey says. “His passion made him a great developer of resources both in direct and indirect contributions. … He is such an interesting combination of storyteller and joyful participant in life, and a real people-person.”
While at Catholic Charities, Barry was the point person for refugees and refugee families arriving in the region. He led staff and volunteers to arrange such necessities as housing, job opportunities, education, English classes, and other critical needs – often supporting individuals and families in the midst of their darkest hours and days. His role also involved carefully navigating the political climate, responding to media inquiries and coordinating with various other agencies and service providers.
Barry has a clear sense of the importance of his work. “America has a long history of immigration and has proven time and time again, that the grit and resilience of new Americans strengthen our country, community and our future.”
He encourages those seeking to support refugees to contact local resettlement agencies about volunteer opportunities – they can include assisting with transportation; donating clothing, food, supplies or gift cards; and mentoring a family as they navigate life in America.
“It has been my and my family’s experience that creating meaningful connections in the community lays the foundation for a refugee’s success,” Barry says. “There is always a Good Samaritan nearby, why not you?”
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