Coalition of Welcoming Offers New Refugee Resettlement Program
Hello Neighbor is proud to announce its partnership with the International Rescue Committee (IRC) and the Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration (PRM) in a groundbreaking initiative called the Coalition of Welcoming. This program represents a significant evolution in the approach to refugee resettlement, empowering grassroots organizations across the nation to welcome newcomers into their communities.
Grassroots Organizations Join Forces for Refugee Resettlement
With the participation of ten dedicated nonprofits from the Hello Neighbor Network, this pilot program aims to support and resettle refugees more effectively. Each organization has been equipped with essential training for new resettlement partners, particularly focusing on aspects such as community building and peer learning. This collaborative effort emphasizes the importance of local knowledge in the refugee resettlement process.
Participating Organizations Make an Impact
Over the year leading to the conclusion of the recent fiscal period, the organizations involved in the Coalition of Welcoming welcomed approximately 110 refugees into their communities. This remarkable achievement showcases the commitment of these organizations to provide crucial support and integration assistance to newcomers. The organizations include:
- Center for Integration and Advancement of New Americans (CIANA)
- Estrella del Paso
- The Greater Gainesville International Center
- Hands on Global
- HOLA Lakeway
- Karen Society of Nebraska
- Mozaic
- Noor Islamic and Cultural Community Center
- Regional Center for Border Health
- Valley Neighbors
Facilitating Refugee Resettlement
The Coalition of Welcoming provides non-profit partners with the tools to engage in refugee resettlement without the bureaucratic hurdles typically associated with becoming a formal resettlement agency. This innovation helps streamline the process and enhances the chances of success for refugees arriving in the U.S.
Support from the State Department
This initiative is a collaborative effort that aims to meet the Biden administration's goal of accepting 125,000 refugees. By partnering with local organizations, the State Department is better positioned to achieve this ambitious target while also facilitating the integration of refugees into American society.
Quotes from Key Figures
Sloane Davidson, the Founder and CEO of Hello Neighbor, stated, "This partnership marks a pivotal moment in refugee resettlement, empowering grassroots organizations to welcome new arrivals in their communities for the first time. Together, we are building a stronger, more inclusive network of support for refugees across the nation."
Una Bilic, the Deputy Director for New Resettlement Pathways at IRC, expressed excitement about the program, saying, "New resettlement services will aid refugees to rebuild their lives and enrich local communities through their economic and cultural contributions."
Sarah Cross, Deputy Assistant Secretary at PRM, highlighted the importance of local organizations, stating, "Such partnerships are critical to broadening and enriching our resettlement landscape to involve community actors."
Engage and Support Refugee Resettlement
For those interested in supporting refugee resettlement efforts, exploring partnership opportunities with Hello Neighbor can be a rewarding step. These collaborations not only benefit refugees but also foster vibrant, diverse communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Coalition of Welcoming?
The Coalition of Welcoming is a pilot program initiated by Hello Neighbor in partnership with the International Rescue Committee, designed to facilitate the resettlement of refugees through grassroots organizations.
Why is this partnership significant?
This initiative empowers local organizations to welcome and integrate refugees without navigating the complex formal resettlement agency process, thus enhancing overall efficiency.
How many organizations are involved in the program?
Ten grassroots nonprofit organizations from the Hello Neighbor Network are participating in the Coalition of Welcoming, each playing a crucial role in welcoming refugees.
What goals does the Coalition of Welcoming aim to achieve?
The primary goal is to support the U.S. government's commitment to resettling 125,000 refugees and helping them successfully integrate into their new communities.
How can individuals support this initiative?
Individuals can support refugee resettlement efforts by exploring partnership opportunities with Hello Neighbor, contributing resources, or volunteering within local organizations.
