Through our holistic array of programs and services, IRIM assists over 2,500 clients from all over the world each year. Along with community groups, congregations of faith, private and public funders, and neighbors like you, we are building communities of hope.

Refugee Resettlement Update

This year, the majority of refugees being sent to the Chicago area are Iraqis who are affiliated with the U.S. government or Christians facing religious persecution, Burmese people who fled the military junta in Myanmar, and Bhutanese people who fled ethnic cleansing in their country. Many of these people, particularly the Burmese and Bhutanese, have spent years in refugee camps.

Refugees sent to IRIM for resettlement by the U.S. State Department are provided a full range of services that help newcomers quickly integrate into American society. These include providing transitional housing and other basic needs, orientation to public transportation and American money, English training, vocational training, job placement, medical referrals, and help with filing all necessary government papers. IRIM has special programs for particularly vulnerable refugees such as youth, seniors, and women.

Learn more about IRIM's services

On average, it costs $5,000 - $8,000 to help a refugee become self-sufficient. To achieve this, IRIM needs the help of community groups, businesses, faith communities, and individuals who can provide financial support for a refugee family as they acquire the skills they need to succeed in the United States.

How your tax-deductible donation helps refugees in the Chicago area:

$5000 - $8000 provides for the first 3 months of a refugee family’s needs (apartment rent, groceries, personal items, etc.) as they work towards self-reliance

$1000 provides furniture and beds for a family of four to six people

$750 provides one month’s rent for a one-bedroom apartment

$500 provides household items for a family of four and groceries for two weeks

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