LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- More than 2.3 million South Sudanese have had to leave their country due to violent conflict. The United Nations said it's the largest refugee crisis in Africa, and the third-largest refugee crisis in the world.

One of those people, who now lives in Louisville, said he wouldn't be here today without the Kentucky Refugee Ministries.

When talking to James Evanson for just a few minutes, you know his family means everything to him.

"Me and my wife, we met way back in high school in Sudan," said Evanson.

But you also learn that he and his family have faced many obstacles.

"Every plan we had came to a stop, cause we have to run for our lives," he said.

Evanson and his wife had to get out of South Sudan due to violent conflict throughout the country, so they went to Syria. With two girls under 3 years old, the Evansons eventually moved to Louisville.

"It's hard. I remember one layover in Amsterdam, and they were crying. They said 'Papa, Mama, I'm tired. I want to go home.' And I'm thinking, we don't have a home," said Evanson. "We just, we belong to nowhere and now, looking back, I know Louisville is my home."

The Evansons now have five kids, and his family has been in Louisville for nearly 20 years, but it wasn't all sunshine and roses. Evanson's education didn't transfer over from South Sudan. But he never gave up.

"My persistence and perseverance for all of us to, to insist for the American Dream had paid off because I was able to work for different companies," he said. "I've been a manager at Kroger, I was a manager at Fresh market, Fresh Thyme, Meijer, and now I'm a manager at Amazon."

Evanson said he wouldn't have been able to do it without his new family at the Kentucky Refugee Ministries, a nonprofit that helps displaced people get the resources they need to thrive. That's why Evanson said he's glad the Thanksgiving dinner is back this year.

Kentucky Refugee Ministries is partnering with St. Agnes School and other local leaders to bring a fresh meal and camaraderie to more than 150 people who are making Louisville their new home.

"Coming together in different events, whether immigrant or local, it's just refreshing," Evanson said. "It's great. It gives us the opportunity to realize our own potential, God-given potential."

The organization is looking for volunteers and donations for the dinner. For information about volunteering or donating, click here.

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