With the recognition of World Refugee Day, the IRC in Richmond is acutely aware of the astounding number of displaced persons around the globe and their desperate need for aid in normal times, now compounded by a pandemic. Many who were on track to be resettled in the United States the past few years had completed the complex required security checks, interviews and medical screenings, only to have their travel suspended due to the previous administration’s rapidly-changing immigration policy shifts followed by COVID travel restrictions.


Thanks to the current administration’s revised immigration policies that better reflect the historical U.S. framework of welcome and successful efforts in abating the spread of COIVD-19, IRC expects to soon welcome many new neighbors to Richmond. The IRC in Richmond has begun the process of reopening its office, with staff working partially in office and partially remote. Though the building is not open to the public and clients are seen by appointment only, there will be occasional in-person volunteer opportunities. To prepare for the anticipated increase in newly arriving families, IRC is recruiting for all volunteer positions, some of which will remain virtual. Email [email protected] for more information.

Additionally, to start re-stocking our home setup closet, we created a Target Wishlist of the essential items needed to welcome those who arrive with little more than a suitcase or bag of personal belongings. Items can be shipped to our office at 1301 North Hamilton Street, Suite 101, Richmond, VA 23230, or delivered to the office by appointment. If you or your school, church, or organization are looking for a no-contact way to support our work, consider purchasing items from the list.

Volunteer Larry Herbert at the IRC in Richmond
Photo: IRC/ Sharon Singer