Nine New Roots gardeners took photos to document the impacts the program has on their lives as part of a participatory action research method, PhotoVoice.

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 persecution, face particularly acute cultural, emotional and financial challenges during the resettlement process. IRC's H.O.M.E. 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.

New Roots is a food security program that focuses on giving our clients the opportunity to grow their own produce and also turn around and sell that produce if they so choose.

Sami Roe, small business specialist at the IRC in Salt Lake City, works with Laan Na Thai to make sure they stay in business during the coronavirus pandemic. He offers a few tips for the community on how to support small, immigrant-owned businesses during the pandemic.

On Saturday, June 20 the IRC in Tallahassee celebrated World Refugee Day. The IRC hosted a live virtual panel discussion with community partners, refugee families and the Tallahassee community at-large. The event highlighted the contributions of the refugee community in Tallahassee, and elevated the voices of refugee families, community leaders and volunteers who ensure Big Bend communities continue to be welcoming places for all.

The IRC in LA is helping refugees and migrants climb the 'credit building ladder' through a new micro-loan program, thanks to the partnership and support of Citi Community Development. The new program has been especially helpful in offering 'emergency grants' and 'resilience loans' to those affected by COVID-19.

Refugee families and survivors of human trafficking are disproportionately affected by COVID-19's impacts on our community. Help IRC ensure our clients have the resources and services they need to get through this trying time.

The HOME Program pairs community and/or faith-based groups directly with refugee families resettled by the IRC in Wichita. In collaboration with the IRC, HOME teams assist the Wichita team to complete home set-ups, provide targeted financial assistance and offer ongoing mentorship to a refugee family for six months. 

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.

As part of our staff spotlight series, we'd like to introduce you to our newest Reception and Placement caseworker, Ellie Mercado!