The IRC in NY chatted with one client who is a mother figure for her younger sister. They both left Afghanistan in early fall with the hope to be safe. Their mother had passed away and they left behind their family members. The older sister made it a priority to concentrate on what she could change.

The IRC’s office in Silver Spring is closed to protect the health of clients, partners, staff and the community during the coronavirus pandemic. Our staff will continue to work remotely and will maintain regular remote contact and appointments with the individuals and families we serve.

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/or persecution face particularly acute cultural, emotional and financial challenges during the resettlement process. IRC's HOME 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.

Private donations contribute greatly to the success of the IRC's work. Although we receive state and federal funding for initial resettlement and employment services, the assistance we provide to refugee families beyond their first few months in the U.S. would not be possible without community support.

A French-English bilingual worksheet for families to use with their children.

Community Sponsorship offers an exciting opportunity for a group of community members to support resettlement efforts and to engage in deeply impactful work with one of our family cases. Following the higher volume of arrivals experienced recently and an increase in community attention toward assisting refugees, the IRC in Oakland is seeking volunteer groups who are interested in becoming Co-Sponsors.

Private donations contribute greatly to the success of the IRC's work. Although we receive state and federal funding for initial resettlement and employment services, the assistance we provide to refugee families beyond their first few months in the U.S. would not be possible without community support.