The IRC in Tucson is committed to bringing our refugee clients from harm to home. As a part of that commitment, we provide refugees with the basics needed to start rebuilding their lives here in the U.S.

There are many ways to get involved with the International Rescue Committee (IRC) in Tucson.  In addition to monetary donations (always welcome) in-kind donations may be accepted to assist refugee families and individuals.. In-kind donations (new or gently used) to the IRC in Tucson can help ensure that refugees build a firm foundation in the United States. Our Resettlement Store is stocked with donations from community members and is open twice each week for IRC families to “shop” for free. An extensive list of acceptable and most needed items is below. 

AS OF DECEMBER 1, 2021, WE ARE PAUSING OUR GENERAL IN-KIND DONATIONS.  The community has come together wonderfully and storage space is at maximum capacity. As we are able to place newly arrived refugees in homes we will begin to accept in-kind donations again.  Of course, monetary donations are always welcome!  

Here is what will be needed when we are able to receive in-kind donations:  

COVID-19 NOTE: This is a list of Critical Donation Needs which can be accepted when IRC Tucson can begin to receive In-Kind donations:  
Please note that due to limited space, we can only accept items that are most needed by our clients. Please call ahead of time to confirm current needs.

Questions? Please contact us at [email protected] or 520 319 2128 ext. 124 or check our Donations FAQ below. 

In addition to in-kind donations, private monetary donations contribute greatly to the success of the IRC's work. The IRC is consistently awarded top marks by charity watchdog groups for our efficient use of donor contribution and the effectiveness of our work. Every bit of support helps!

Make your online contribution today! 
Other monetary donations can be sent to our office in Tucson:  
International Rescue Committee in Tucson
Attn: Donations
1011 N Craycroft Rd. Suite 404
Tucson, AZ  85711

As of September 2021, our current in-kind donation needs include the following: 

ONLY the list of Critical Donation Needs are accepted and ONLY via package shipment to our offices.

We encourage you to check our Amazon Wish List, from which you may purchase items to donate or use as a sample for purchase elsewhere.

International Rescue Committee
Attn: Donations 520.319.2128 ext. 124
1011 N Craycroft Rd. Suite 404
Tucson, AZ  85711

Critical Donation Needs: 

Check our Amazon Wish List

For all items below this line or items not listed that you would like to donate, please contact us directly at [email protected]

Donation needs for our Nutrition and Food Security/New Roots Garden Program: 

For more information on Nutrition and Food Security Program needs, please contact Katrina Martinez at [email protected]

Donations FAQ

Is your office receiving donations during the COVID-19 epidemic?

As of Septemer 2021, NO CLOTHING DONATIONS ARE BEING ACCEPTED.  However, we are accepting gift cards (Walmart, Target, Safeway/Albertsons, Frys, Sprouts, etc.) household items such as pots & pans, dishes, flatware, drinking glasses, etc.   We request that you call the office before dropping off donations as we are observing strict COVID-19 precautions to limit exposure to the virus.  

ONLY the list of Critical Donation Needs are accepted.

Are there any items the IRC is NOT able to accept?

Yes. Due to limited space at our office, we are unable to accept furniture donations and clothing. Refugee clients receive basic furniture and household items upon arrival. We kindly refer donations of large furniture to our partner, Deseret Industries. Deseret Industries offers vouchers for IRC clients to shop a full selection of extra furniture and household items at their store.  Deseret Industries is located at 605 E Grant Rd, Tucson, AZ 85705.

Does the IRC accept clothing donations?

Not at this time.  Due to limited space, we cannot accept clothing donations.  Our partner Deseret Industries is a good alternative for your clothing donations.    Deseret Industries is located at 605 E Grant Rd, Tucson, AZ 85705.

Can the IRC pick up donations?

No. Unfortunately, we do not have pick-up service. Please kindly drop off donations at our office:1011 N Craycroft Rd., Tucson AZ 85711 between the hours of 9am to 4pm, Monday to Friday.

Thank you so much for all your support! For further information, please email us at [email protected] or call 520 319 2128 ext 124

Can I create a Donation Drive? 

Yes!  An In-Kind Donation Drive can be so helpful!  Some ideas are: 

Gift Card Drive:
Gift cards to stores like Walmart, Target, Fry's Grocery, Safeway/Albertsons, Bashas, etc. offer newly arrived refugees the opportunity to choose for themselves the things they need. In addition, gift cards offer refugee families and individuals an important acculturation opportunity as they will need to traverse a new bus route to get to the store and also interact, in English, at the store once they arrive.

Adult Work Bag:
When a newly arrived refugee receives a job, there are basic items that can make the commute to and from work easier.  They primarily use the bus system and bicycles to get to work and Tucson's weather is a factor.  Backpacks should include:

Personal Hygiene Kits:
Include oral hygiene products, soap, shampoo, body wash and feminine hygiene products. Full-size items are preferred. 
Bundles should include:

Elementary School Backpacks:
Simple backpack that includes basic school supplies for Elementary School age refugee students. Bundles should include:

Middle/High School Backpacks:
Large backpack that includes basic and advanced school supplies for Middle or High School age refugee students.

Home Cleaning Supplies:
Include multipurpose cleaners, reusable cleaning cloths, laundry detergent, and dish soap. These items are often expensive and difficult for newly arrived refugees to purchase within their first few months of arrival.  Hypo allergenic items are the best.  

Socks and Underwear Drive:
Volunteer as a group and collect new socks and underwear for all ages. 

Handmade Quilt Donations:
Volunteer as a group and make quilts! Other handmade items, like warm scarves and winter hats, are also needed for newly arrived refugees in the winter.

Thank you for your kindness and your thoughtfulness!

For more information, please contact our Development Coordinator at 520 319 2128 ext 124.