Welcoming the Stranger

Welcoming the Stranger

The USCCB's Migration & Refugee Services is the largest refugee resettlement agency in the world. We help those who are being persecuted start a new life. What would you do if you had to flee your country because of war or religious persecution?

Refugees, having suffered great loss, including loss of their homes, livelihoods, possessions and oftentimes families, need assistance starting over in a new country.  Their initial needs are many: food, clothing, shelter, employment, ESL, and orientation to a new community and culture. Resettling refugees provides an extraordinary opportunity for countless Americans to take an active part in offering a caring and supportive environment for refugees as they begin new lives. Without volunteers and resources from the community and parishes, USCCB/MRS and the diocesan resettlement offices would be unable to accomplish the tremendous task of giving refugees new hope and the opportunity to begin again.  

How You Can Help

Many of USCCB's diocesan resettlement offices offer opportunities for volunteers, churches, community groups, landlords and local businesses to welcome and support refugee families.

Complete our interest form and we will forward your information to a USCCB network resettlement agency closest to your home.

Migrant family

How YOU Can Get Involved*

  • Churches and Groups: Walk alongside a refugee family as a community sponsor
  • Volunteers: Serve as an English tutor, job coach, mentor, and more 
  • Local Businesses: Recruit and hire refugees as an important part of your work force
  • Landlords: Provide a safe place for newcomers to call home by renting apartments to refugees
*Opportunities vary based on each local resettlement agency.

You can also donate by going to the National Catholic Fund for Migration and Refugee Services webpage.

MRSConnect

MRSConnect is for diocesan staff working in partnership with USCCB/MRS to provide services to refugees and migrants and others on the move.  It provides program-specific information, resources, and trainings as well as broader resources to support this ministry. Login here. For questions, please email @email.