An update about the current situation for Afghan arrivals in Colorado, including how many people IRC in Denver has resettled so far, the predicted numbers, the impact donor support has, and the gaps that remain to meet needs such as housing and legal assistance.

Rabia Afghan and her family arrived in the United States in April 2022 as part of “Operation Allies Welcome,” fleeing the Taliban takeover in Afghanistan. Initially welcomed by IRC staff member Bill Tuffin in Virginia, their paths crossed again in January 2023 when Bill, now an Employment Specialist at the IRC in Denver, was tasked with helping Rabia find employment. Despite language barriers and the challenges of resettlement, Rabia secured a job at a local hotel and, through determination and support from the IRC, was promoted within two years. Her story highlights the critical role of community support in helping refugees rebuild their lives and the ongoing challenges they face in their new homes.

President Joe Biden has a chance to rebuild the refugee resettlement program, which has historically enjoyed bipartisan support. The IRC takes you through the steps of the rigorous U.S. refugee vetting and resettlement process.

One year since the earthquake, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) and our partners in Syria and Türkiye are continuing to focus on critical relief needs, while emphasizing long-term, sustainable support to rehabilitation and early recovery in impacted communities.

The IRC in Salt Lake City’s Economic Wellbeing team celebrates the Shapoor family’s first home! Through matched assistance programs, the IRC actively works to combat an evolving housing market through community partnership, education tailored to refugees and other immigrants, and access to financial support for eligible community members.

The IRC in Missoula helps people fleeing violence and persecution rebuild their lives and gain control of their future. We continue to work alongside communities and partners to welcome and support refugees and immigrants from other crisis zones around the world.