Last month, the IRC in Silver Spring spoke on a panel about organizations serving vulnerable groups in Maryland.

Moving to a new country can be an overwhelming and isolating experience for anyone. Refugees, who are forced to flee their homes due to conflict, violence and persecution, face particularly acute cultural, emotional and financial challenges during the resettlement process. IRC's H.O.M.E. Program pairs volunteer groups with refugee families to help ease their transition into life in the U.S. through mentorship and financial and material support.

Humanitarian needs in countries such as Afghanistan, Yemen, Syria and Somalia could rise as a result of the conflict in Ukraine. Here are three reasons why.