In 2018, less than 3 percent of refugees went home. The vast majority struggle to get by in countries unable to meet their needs. Most relief efforts are focused on food, shelter and basic health care—but refugees also require education and livelihoods opportunities if they are to rebuild their lives. The IRC strives for “better aid” that delivers assistance more effectively, efficiently and sustainably.

​While the plight of war refugees is in the news, and deservedly so, the struggle of refugee families from Eritrea is not often in the headlines.  Located in Northern Africa, Eritrea is led by an oppressive regime, with few rights for its people.  Thousands flee each month in search of survival and a better life. Over the last seven years, the International Rescue Committee in Silver Spring has resettled hundreds of Eritrean refugees. Because Eritrean refugees are at risk if they are identified, the subject of our story – who we will call “H” – did not want to be named. This is her story.

The IRC in Florida's Tallahassee office is seeking volunteers for a new Refugee Youth Tutoring program. The program is designed to support young refugees in grades 6 to 12 with their educational needs, with a special focus on English literacy and comprehension.

Meet Deepak, the owner of two local restaurants and a former refugee.

On April 27th, nearly 175 community humanitarians attended Journey to the Wasatch, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) in Salt Lake City’s annual spring fundraising party celebrating the journey hundreds of our refugee neighbors undergo to make their home in Utah.

The U.S. refugee program was suspended in Jan 2025; this guide helps community leaders advocate for its return through outreach and media engagement.

A unique initiative is dismantling barriers and introducing refugee youth to the exhilarating world of indoor climbing. Health promotion program supervisor, Kaitlin Campbell, explains how the partnership with The Front Climbing Club was created and its impact on refugee youth.

In September, IRC staff members—some former refugees—met with Senator Mike Lee’s office to share their experiences helping to educate on the benefits of a strong refugee resettlement program in the U.S.