We know, the refugee crisis can seem so far removed and too huge an issue to even chew on. But get this – you can help. For starters, we have a few ideas for you:
• Volunteer with an International Rescue Committee office near you.
It’s shown that with community support, refugee resettlement can be wildly successful. Volunteers can help with anything from mentorship, to job seeking assistance, to working in the garden. There are IRC office all over the USA, find one near you.
Fact: New Americans are a vital part of the US’ communities, culture and economy. Our new report with @jpmorgan: https://t.co/EKE3h7uObA
— IRC Intl Rescue Comm (@theIRC) May 21, 2017
• Give a little. Locally, you can pitch your buck to the IRC. If you wanna send your money abroad, donate to an organization like The White Helmets, the unarmed and neutral Syrian Civil Defense (watch the documentary about them on Netflix).
Volunteers of @SyriaCivilDef working with children in Khan Shaykhun during an awareness campaign on community safety. #Idlib #Syria . pic.twitter.com/cgxFPWso1t
— Idlib – Whitehelmets (@whitehelmets_sy) May 3, 2017
• Airbnb your spare room to a refugee. The program Refugees Welcome links you up with refugees who need a place to live, and even helps cover rent and utility costs.
Will you stand #WithRefugees? https://t.co/eA39AT0dHc
— Refugees Welcome (@refugeeswlcmGR) January 29, 2017
• Tweet and Instagram the hashtag #WhatWouldYouTake. As in, if you had to flee your home, what few items would you pack? Keep this real conversation going, even if it’s heavy. Don’t get too comfortable.