URGENT UPDATES
There have recently been many rapid changes to immigration rules and policies.
World Relief has created a resource page with helpful information, available in 10 languages, for newcomers and those who wish to help them in this season.
(see below)
DID YOU KNOW?
FORCIBLY DISPLACED
Someone who has been forced to flee their home due to conflict, violence, persecution, or disaster.
INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSON (IDP)
An individual forced to flee for the same reasons as refugees, but has not crossed an international border.
REFUGEE
a person who has been forced to flee their home country to escape war, violence, or persecution and has been officially granted refugee status. This status is determined through a legal process established by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).
ASYLUM SEEKER
An individual who has fled his/her home and claims to be a refugee, but official refugee status has not yet been officially determined.
IMMIGRANT & REFUGEE RESOURCE LINKS
The US Office of Refugee Resettlement partners with the nine refugee resettlement agencies listed below:
- Church World Service (CWS)
- Ethiopian Community Development Council (ECDC)
- Episcopal Migration Ministries (EMM)
- Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society (HIAS)
- International Rescue Committee (IRC)
- Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Services (LIRS)
- US Conference of Catholic Bishops
- US Committee for Refugees and Immigrants (USCRI)
- World Relief (WR)
Additional information on the Refugee Settlement process here in the US:
General Refugee Settlement Opportunities by State (Dated, but gives basic information):
Other Contacts:
CULTURAL GUIDANCE
Our cultural orientation guides offer general information to help host communities better understand and support newcomers from different cultural backgrounds. Culture varies widely—even within the same country—based on factors like education, region, and social status. The goal is not to define fixed rules, but to provide insight into how newcomers might view and experience unfamiliar customs. Misunderstandings are normal, and empathy is key. When in doubt, ask respectfully—especially elders or those familiar with honor-based cultures—for guidance. These guides are a starting point for building mutual respect and smoother cross-cultural interactions.
- AFGHAN REFUGEES
- MORE GUIDES COMING SOON
WILL YOU PARTNER WITH US?
We would love to hear from you.
What are you doing in your church or ministry to reach out to your immigrant neighbors? What ideas do you have that you are willing to share with the RAIN network? We hope to connect the ministries across the country and highlight what is happening.