Our Mission
SSEF is the only whole-family resource dedicated to South Sudanese who have resettled in Massachusetts.
Committed to enhancing strengths, building self-sufficiency, and promoting community, SSEF assists with navigating systems, accessing resources, building skills, and creating opportunities to share South Sudan's history and distinct cultural heritage.
SSEF does this by connecting South Sudanese adults and their children with the following:
accessible preschool
summer academic and day camp opportunities
The Women’s Program
educational empowerment
community-based enrichment
outreach programs, cross-cultural events and exhibitions
The Financial Fitness
A Community Partnership
South Sudanese of Massachusetts
The South Sudanese came to the United States in the 1990's and early 2000's fleeing one of the worst humanitarian crises of our generation. They were all survivors of the world's longest civil war, during which more than 2 million people perished. Around 150 of these refugees settled in the Boston area. Today the South Sudanese community of Massachusetts continues to grow. We welcome those fleeing the current and tragic civil war as well as those arriving to joyously reunite with family. SSEF provides advancement opportunities through supportive community initiatives. These initiatives build upon South Sudanese values, the immigrant spirit, resilience, a desire to succeed, and a commitment to establishing community.
This episode of 60 Minutes provides some history about how The Lost Boys of Sudan came to America. Since then many have attended college and trade schools, built careers, married and started families.
It is important also to consider the Young Women of South Sudan who share a noteworthy history and have also accomplished much, prioritizing education, family, work and community while maintaining cultural values.
Dedicated Allies
Working, learning and growing together, SSEF unites volunteers, professionals, academics, donors, and youth committed to the practical tasks of social justice and advancement for this most deserving community. Just as the South Sudanese of Massachusetts benefit from SSEF programming, so do SSEF's many other stakeholders.
Lives of volunteers are enriched by cross-cultural exchange
Horizons of donors are expanded through stories of resilience, resourcefulness, and perseverance
Meaningful connections and new friendships form in this unique environment
Deep satisfaction in sending a child to camp & preschool and helping adults achieve their personal goals are among the many other benefits that SSEF stakeholders experience.