In response to the COVID-19, or coronavirus, pandemic, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) in Salt Lake City is working hard to ensure the refugees we serve, and other immigrants in the community, are informed about the virus.

Ritiek (Reh - teek), her mom, and her younger sister were one of the many families forced to flee Afghanistan in 1995. Four years later, they were welcomed in Tucson, Arizona in the summer of 1999. She and her family were the first Afghan refugees to be resettled in Tucson, Arizona. 

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.

Support refugees and immigrants by becoming a volunteer with the IRC in Atlanta. Opportunities range from English class teaching assistance and career development guidance to donation drive organizing and group volunteer projects.

The mission of the International Rescue Committee (IRC) is to help people whose lives and livelihoods are shattered by conflict and disaster to survive, recover, and gain control of their future. Founded in 1933, the International Rescue Committee is a leading, non-sectarian, non-profit organization providing emergency relief, protection, rehabilitation assistance, resettlement services, and advocacy for refugees and victims of oppression or violent conflict. Domestically, our 29 offices across the U.S. ensure new arrivals have food, shelter, and clothing, and work with refugees to help them gain self-sufficiency. The Des Moines, IA office was opened in July of 2022, serving more than 200 refugees in its first year.

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.

In partnership with Salt Lake Community College and with generous support from Marriott International, the IRC in Salt Lake City provides training to refugees who are seeking to gain skills needed to enter a career in the hospitality sector.

Former International Rescue Committee (IRC) client Patrick Karera -- a Congolese refugee who fled violence in his home country and overcame extensive health complications -- graduated from high school this spring. IRC staff were present to cheer him on.

Since late September, the IRC in Salt Lake City has welcomed more than 190 Afghan refugees to Utah, With support from community partners like the Utah Muslim Civic League, the IRC is there to help families rebuild their lives in our community.