Part two in a three-part series, these deep dives better explain the process of refugee resettlement in Kansas. In December, we covered the basics of who refugees are and initial resettlement in the U.S. This month, the focus is on refugee resettlement in Kansas during the first 24 months after arrival, including the efforts of the International Rescue Committee (IRC) in Kansas to help families positively integrate and thrive in their new community.

The IRC in Salt Lake City is currently running a series, “Refugee Resettlement”, describing our efforts to resettle and serve refugee individuals and families who now call the Beehive State “home.” Part two focuses on efforts to reach self-sufficiency and positively integrate into Salt Lake County.

I am honored to have joined the IRC as the new Executive Director for Northern California. The scale of our efforts in the region last year -- resettling  roughly Afghan humanitarian parolees since August 2021, alongside another 448 refugees and SIVs since October 2021. 

Update: February 24, 2021. The IRC responded to extreme winter weather conditions affecting Texas, causing blackouts and water shortages. Both IRC locations in Dallas and Abilene are still closed however staff are actively responding to client needs remotely.

Four clients share their stories about how IRC's financial capability program has assisted them during the pandemic.

The humanitarian situation in Afghanistan continues to deteriorate rapidly as instability increases. The International Rescue Committee in Salt Lake City is working alongside communities and partners to support Afghans living in Utah and ensuring a warm welcome for those families soon to arrive in the coming weeks and months.