3 Easy Ways to Support Refugees in Your Area

In 2022, 100 million people were forcibly displaced from their home country due to persecution, conflict, violence, natural disaster, or human rights violations. In the wake of these tragedies, communities want to help but often don't know how. Today we're discussing practical ways in which individuals and communities can support refugees in their resettlement and integration process.

Resettlement Agencies Near You

Finding a resettlement agency working with refugees in your area is very simple. The Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) maintains a directory of programs and services organized by state. Simply click on your state to see the organizations in your area. Once you have identified resettlement agencies you'd like to partner with, you can apply the following ideas.

1. Donate

One of the most straightforward ways to support refugees is by donating to organizations that work to aid refugees. These organizations provide essential services like housing, food, clothing, medical care, and education. They also help refugees integrate into their new communities by providing language classes, job training, and cultural orientation. Donations to these organizations can often be made in the form of monetary donations, household items, and/or food.

All resettlement agencies adhere to a cooperative agreement issued by the US Department of State, which includes a comprehensive list of items necessary to support new refugee arrivals. Adhering to this agreement ensures that families receive all essential items for a smooth resettlement process. Therefore, most agencies are always in need of the following items.

Twin Mattress | Many families move into a small home or apartment and might have children sharing rooms. Therefore, twin mattresses are preferred and most agencies will not accept a mattress larger than queen size.

Twin Bed Frame | Beds that don't require a boxspring are ideal.

Flatware | This set is service for six. Some agencies require sets for a certain number of people.

Lamp | One light source per room is required. This one has the added benefit of charging ports.

Cooking Utensils | Essential cooking utensils are required. This set includes a spatula, tongs, and flipper.

Alarm Clock | Corded is preferred. If battery operated, kindly also include necessary batteries.

Dish Soap | Not all residences will have a dishwasher so liquid dish soap is essential. A multi-pack will support multiple families!

Picture Dictionary | Refugees arriving in the United States will have varying levels of English language acquisition. A picture dictionary is a great tool to equip new neighbors with a means of communication. We also like this version specifically designed for children who speak Farsi.

Note: The above is a partial list of the required items. Always check with your local agency to confirm their needs before donating physical items.

2. Volunteer

From organizing donations to cooking meals or decorating homes, there are many various ways you can donate your time to resettlement agencies. Another big need is language support. Language barriers can be a significant challenge for refugees as they try to navigate their new environment. Offering language support can help refugees access essential services and integrate into their new communities more effectively. Individuals who speak the refugees' native language can offer translation services or teach English as a second language classes.

3. Sponsorship

Another way to support refugees is through sponsorship. This involves a group taking responsibility for supporting a refugee family or individual for a period of time. The sponsor provides financial support, housing, and social support, among other things, to help the refugee family settle into their new community. To learn more about sponsorship and the new Welcome Corps program you can read this article and if you're interested in sponsoring a refugee you can apply with Welcome.US.

Supporting refugees is a responsibility that we all share. The practical ways discussed in this blog post are just a few examples of how individuals and communities can support refugees. The most crucial thing is to take action, whether by donating to organizations, volunteering, or sponsoring a refugee family. Every contribution counts, and together we can make a positive impact on the lives of refugees.