News from Wichita, KS

The International Rescue Committee in Wichita is closed to staff, clients and the general public due to COVID-19. Staff will continue to communicate with clients remotely during this time.

Our amazing team in Kansas is working hard to put together and deliver essential supplies—including food—to clients across the Wichita metro area. Thank you to our community for continuing to support our work during this time! Your support makes our work possible, and for that, we could not be more grateful.

We are excited to announce a really fun way to spread positivity, kindness, and cheer. Local mom Alexis Phillips created the We Got This Challenge 2020 as a way to share positivity and make our community smile during an otherwise stressful time.

When times are tough, our community has always risen to the challenge. Today is no different. As we face the uncertainty of the coronavirus, we think of the most vulnerable in our community.

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

Tutors will assist IRC staff in the instruction of US history and relevant English to refugee and immigrant populations. The volunteer will provide in-class civics and citizenship tutoring at least once a week. IRC provides training and resources to all volunteers, who typically instruct one-on-one or in small groups. 

Learn about Claire Branstetter, resettlement caseworker at the IRC in Wichita, and what she loves most about her work.

Learn how to donate your used car to a refugee in need!

The IRC in Wichita is currently running a series, "Refugee Resettlement," describing the efforts to resettle and serve the refugees and their families who call the Sunflower State "home." Part three, the final in the series, focuses on the programs and services offered to support refugees' and New Americans' efforts to positively integrate beyond resettlement.

More than 50 families, friends, church and civic groups came together to gather items refugee families prioritized on their wish lists, such as vacuums, televisions, and household items for over 55 newly arrived refugee families and individuals. More than $20,000 worth of in-kind donations were collected and distributed during the month of December to these families.