New York, NY, January 19, 2023 — Today, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) joined over 200 organizations in support of the launch of a new private sponsorship program called Welcome Corps. Through the Welcome Corps, everyday Americans will be able to privately sponsor refugees from around the world for resettlement in the United States.
David Miliband, President and CEO of the International Rescue Committee, said:
"The United States has long been a humanitarian leader for those fleeing violence and persecution. With over 100 million people displaced worldwide, the launch of the Welcome Corps is a much-needed pathway to help additional people find safety through the American spirit of welcome. The International Rescue Committee is proud to support the launch of this effort and join Americans from all walks of life and across the nation to welcome refugees.”
The Welcome Corps was launched by the Department of State's Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration (PRM), and is being implemented by a consortium of six organizations with expertise in refugee resettlement, protection, and welcome, including the IRC. This consortium will offer expert guidance and support to Americans joining the Welcome Corps as well as manage the Welcome Corps’ program infrastructure.