Refugee families will be disproportionately affected by the impact of COVID-19 on our community in the coming weeks. Help the IRC ensure that our clients have the resources and services they need to get through this trying time.

Making up for reduced access to essential services

When schools and daycare centers close, IRC clients often do not have other options for childcare and will have to miss work to care for their children. There will be many cascading impacts of this outbreak over the weeks and months to come, which will result in our clients needing increased help from the IRC.


Helping families impacted by interruptions to employment and unexpected leaves of absence

Many IRC clients work in the industries being hit hardest by COVID-19, including hospitality, food service, and others. Newcomers do not qualify for unemployment benefits or other COVID-19 employment-related benefits because they have not yet worked in the U.S. long enough. This means many families will need extra support with rent, utilities and other basic needs in the coming weeks and months.


Supporting people at higher risk for COVID-19

One of our first priorities is ensuring that people at higher risk for the illness have the information and resources they need to stay healthy. IRC case managers are providing individualized outreach to all clients so that they understand COVID-19, how to contact their doctor, and how to keep their families safe. Together, we can all support this resilient and resourceful community who are rebuilding their lives in our state.

This Emergency Fund will be used by the IRC in Kansas to support individuals, families, and communities impacted by COVID-19. All contributions are tax-deductible. Visit our donation page to make a contribution to the Emergency Fund today.

The IRC in Kansas is here for refugees and immigrants no matter what. Thanks for being here with us.