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Syrian refugee family arrives at Lambert International Airport after a long and grueling flight for themselves and their tiny children. Photo by Wayne Crosslin/International Institute |
The International Institute has launched the Liberty Flight Campaign to provide essential underwriting support for our refugee resettlement services. The on-line campaign's goal is approximately $40,000.
"Although there is currently a refugee travel ban in place, we still have refugees who require resettlement assistance," said Anna Crosslin, Institute CEO. "Between January and the implementation of the ban, we have sponsored 355 refugees from Nepal, Somalia, Syria, Iraq, and the Congo (DRC)."
Agencies like the International Institute receive a modest
per capita grant to assist with refugee resettlement. In addition to housing, transportation and food for the newcomers, the grant also helps to underwrite resettlement staff. These staff take refugees to medical appointments, provide community orientation, organize volunteer support, and otherwise ease the transition for newcomers for many months after their arrival.
"Since virtually no new refugees are currently being resettled, the resettlement grants have been cancelled," said Crosslin. "So we are seeking support to help continue our work with new arrivals during the 120-day ban period."
The support of the community is vital if we are to continue to quickly
integrate newcomers into the St. Louis region. Make your donation today!
Tax-deductible donations can be made by clicking
here.