Recent Update to Refugee Resettlement

On January 20th, an Executive Order was issued suspending the U.S. Refugee Resettlement Program for at least several months.
This decision has far-reaching consequences for thousands of families – many who were anticipating reunification with their family members who were already resettled in the United States, or were awaiting final details for resettlement after several years. Our hearts are heavy as we know what the suspension of this program means for so many vulnerable families and individuals around the globe.
We are continuing our work to come alongside resettled families – providing ongoing care for those in our community now and working to develop a more sustainable approach to care for those who will arrive in the years ahead.
What will the Executive Order mean practically?
There will be a suspension of arrivals of refugees to the United States indefinitely, effective on 1/27/25.
The federal government has been instructed to design a refugee admissions process that will admit only refugees who align with the interests of the United States. The program will be reviewed every 90 days to assess resumption.
How will already resettled individuals be impacted by these changes?
All federal funding supporting recent refugee arrivals has been suspended.
At this time, individuals and families with refugee status, current parole status, and permanent resident card holders are not at risk of deportation. In recent years, Refugee Care Collective has provided support to hundreds of families from Afghanistan and Ukraine who were granted humanitarian parole. While these families are not currently impacted by recent administrative changes, it is unclear if they may be affected moving forward.
Where do the majority of refugees to the United States arrive from?
Last year, the majority of refugees admitted to the United States were individuals seeking refuge from persecution, war, and violence from Afghanistan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Myanmar, Syria, Ukraine, and Venezuela.
About the Refugee Resettlement Program
The U.S. Refugee Admissions Program was established in 1980 and created a legal pathway for families and individuals who were forced to flee their homes due to war, violence, and persecution to find refuge in the United States. The process of resettlement is a rigorous and lengthy one which involves in-person interviews, health screenings and security clearances. Of the 43.7 million refugees globally, only a small number of refugees are considered for resettlement comparative to the global need.
How do I provide support?
- Consider joining us in this work through a one-time donation. Or, join our Giving Community and become a monthly or quarterly donor.
- Stay informed on the updated reports regarding refugee and immigrant communities:
- Volunteer to support families locally:
Thank you for your care for our resettled neighbors – those who are rebuilding their lives in our community today and those who will be welcomed in the years to come. Our work is far from finished, and we thank you for your continued support.
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