A former refugee from Myanmar, who lived in a Thai camp, now works for World Relief in the US. Arriving as a child, she received support from a caseworker. Today, she serves as a senior family resource specialist, helping immigrant families access benefits. She is also pursuing graduate studies in international education to expand opportunities for refugee children. Her journey from student to staff member illustrates how education and community support foster long-term stability and belonging for displaced populations. According to World Relief, her story highlights the impact of welcoming new neighbors.
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Emery Winkle, an eighth grader at Ruben Trejo Dual Language Academy in Spokane, US, organized a hygiene drive for local refugees. Instead of requesting birthday gifts, she asked for deodorant and toothpaste. Her classmates collected hundreds of items, which were donated to World Relief Spokane. Winkle’s motivation stemmed from friendships with immigrant students at her school. She served as student body president and aims to study social work in the future. The initiative highlights youth leadership and community support for displaced populations in the region.
A randomized controlled trial conducted by the University of Oxford in Ukraine shows that Hope Groups programming significantly reduces violence against children and parental mental health symptoms. Published in Lancet Regional Health Europe, the study found that participating parents reported half the violence against children and lower levels of depression and anxiety compared to non-participants. World Relief and partners developed the intervention to support families affected by the Russian invasion. The results suggest that providing mental health and parenting support during active conflict is effective and urgent, with plans to expand the program globally through the Global Hope Groups Collaborative.
A refugee family fled conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, eventually settling in a camp in Burundi. Facing extreme poverty after losing their home, they joined a financial initiative providing training and microloans. One member started a small business selling food and palm oil, while the other began selling mobile data. The program helped the family achieve greater economic stability. Although they continue to seek resettlement for long-term security, the initiative has significantly improved their immediate financial situation, according to the aid organization.
World Relief marked World Humanitarian Day by detailing its ongoing aid efforts in Ukraine. The organization supports over 350,000 people through partnerships with local churches and groups like Fight for Freedom in Kharkiv. Activities include winterization kits, mental health support, and child-friendly spaces for traumatized youth. Jimmy Tuhaise, the Country Director based in Kyiv, emphasized restoring dignity amid the war. Since 2022, more than 30,000 children have benefited from these programs. The group states that humanitarian work aims to provide hope and stability for displaced families and vulnerable communities in conflict zones.
World Relief Wisconsin is participating in Welcoming Week in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, from September 10 to 19. The annual campaign aims to create inclusive spaces for immigrants and foster community belonging. More than 12 local organizations, businesses, and government entities are collaborating to support this initiative. Events include an Advocacy Day Open House at St. James the Greater Catholic Church, a multicultural festival, and various cultural performances. Jodi Jewell, the Chippewa Valley office lead, emphasized the importance of intentional efforts to build a connected city. The schedule features diverse activities designed to encourage connection and advocacy for immigrant neighbors throughout the week.
World Relief Sacramento concluded its fourth annual Young Adult Summer Group, an eight-week program for Afghan women aged 18 to 23. The initiative, running since 2022, focuses on building confidence, friendships, and practical life skills. This year’s schedule combined health and wellness education, integration support, and English language training. Fifteen participants attended a graduation celebration hosted by a volunteer in Sacramento, featuring a pool party and gifts from partners like The Alliance and Patelco. The program aims to help young women navigate US systems and develop independence through community connection and skill-building activities delivered in their native language.
A Syrian refugee who arrived in the US has been accepted into a pharmacy program at a university in Indiana. Although she held a pharmacy degree from Jordan, US regulations required her to restart her education. With support from a career pathways coordinator, she completed prerequisite courses at a community college in Iowa. She graduated and applied to the university, receiving an acceptance email. She is scheduled to begin classes to pursue her goal of becoming a clinical pharmacist. This case illustrates the challenges immigrants face when navigating unfamiliar educational systems. (Source: World Relief)
Following two major earthquakes in Venezuela on June 24, 2026, World Relief is providing emergency assistance to affected communities. The disaster struck Caracas, La Guaira, and Aragua, killing over 6,000 people and displacing thousands. According to the outlet, World Relief partners with Baptist World Aid and the National Baptist Convention of Venezuela to deliver food, hygiene kits, and clean water to 1,300 families. Four water purification systems are being installed to serve approximately 250 families daily. Additionally, health supplies are being deployed to address medical shortages in a region where healthcare access is severely disrupted. The organization emphasizes long-term support for recovery and diaspora families.
A staff member from an aid organization reports that a young refugee child has shown significant progress since arriving in the United States. The family fled conflicts in Central and Southern Africa, settling in the US recently. Initially struggling with language and behavior, the child transformed after joining after-school programs at a partner church in the country. A local pastor and aid staff provided stability and support. The child now attends Kindergarten, speaks English, and thrives emotionally. The story highlights the impact of community support on refugee integration, despite a less welcoming policy environment for immigrants. The family attributes their success to faith, school, and local church involvement.
World Relief and Airbnb.org have partnered to offer free temporary housing to refugee and immigrant families in Wisconsin following a severe EF-3 tornado. The storm struck the Fox Valley area, including Appleton and Menasha, last month with 140 mph winds. Many affected families, primarily resettled from the Democratic Republic of Congo, suffered significant home damage. The collaboration aims to help breadwinners continue working while repairs are made. World Relief also coordinates food and hygiene supplies, noting that the disaster has highlighted community generosity and the need for sustained support during recovery.
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