Why are Refugee Charities Important?
Across the globe, over 82.4 million individuals navigate a different reality. Uprooted by conflict, persecution, and climate disasters, they carry the weight of displacement and uncertainty.
Every statistic – the 26.6 million seeking asylum, the 44.4 million internally displaced, and the staggering 82% women and children – paints a poignant picture of vulnerability. But amidst the shadows, the unwavering efforts of refugee charities shine as beacons of hope, transforming hardship into resilience and rebuilding lives brick by brick.
Source - Statista
Businesses Supporting Refugee Charities
For businesses aiming to broaden their social impact and cultivate stronger connections with their customer base, forging partnerships with dedicated organizations presents a potent avenue for positive change.
Lemonade was the UK's first subscription underwear service focused on building a sustainable community and supporting women. However, the team at Lemonade discovered early on that there were many outside of their community that needed support. Lemonade started working with Choose Love - a refugee support charity in n February 2023. They donate undies to women in need and collect donations at checkout (using Virtue's Customer Donation Shopify App.
To date, they have collected over £5000 in donations and have donated over 15,000 pairs of undies to women in need.
Refugee Awareness Days
For businesses looking to support a Refugee charity, there is never a better time than now. However, there are some specific awareness events dedicated to supporting the World Day of Migrants and Refugees.
Here are a few of the best Refugee charities to support:
United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR)
GiveWell Rating - 4 Stars
Founded in 1950, UNHCR is the leading global organization dedicated to refugee protection and assistance. They provide vital aid like shelter, food, water, healthcare, and education to refugees around the world.
Impact: In 2022, UNHCR assisted over 82.4 million individuals, facilitating safe refuge and advocating for their rights.
International Rescue Committee (IRC)
GiveWell Rating - 4 Stars
Founded in 1932, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) delivers both immediate emergency relief and sustained development aid to refugees and other vulnerable communities in more than 40 countries. Their areas of emphasis include health, education, livelihoods, and protection.
Impact: In the year 2022, the IRC made a significant impact by extending assistance to over 31 million individuals grappling with the consequences of conflict and natural disasters worldwide.
Doctors Without Borders (MSF)
GiveWell Rating - 4 Stars
Founded in 1971, MSF provides medical care to people affected by conflict, natural disasters, and epidemics, including refugees in many parts of the world. They are known for their rapid response and willingness to work in challenging environments.
Impact: In 2022, MSF teams treated over 34 million patients in over 70 countries, responding to emergencies and providing ongoing healthcare services.
The Joint Council for the Welfare of Immigrants (JCWI)
GiveWell Rating - 4 Stars
Founded in 1967, the JCWI champions the rights of migrants and refugees in the UK. They provide legal support, policy research, and public awareness campaigns to challenge harmful legislation and promote fairer immigration policies.
Impact: In 2022, they successfully challenged the Nationality and Borders Act, securing vital legal protections for refugees and asylum seekers.
Refugee Council
GiveWell Rating - 4 Stars
Established in 1986, the Refugee Council champions the rights and well-being of refugees and asylum seekers in the UK. They provide legal advice, advocacy, and practical support through resettlement and integration programs.
Impact: In 2022, they supported over 12,300 individuals through direct services and advocacy campaigns.
Refugee Action
GiveWell Rating - 4 Stars
Founded in 1981, Refugee Action provides practical support and advocacy for refugees and asylum seekers in the UK. They focus on housing, food security, mental health services, and community inclusion initiatives.
Impact: In 2022, they supported over 5,600 individuals with essential services and campaigned for improved government policies towards refugees.
Freedom from Torture
GiveWell Rating - 4 Stars
Established in 1985, Freedom from Torture provides rehabilitation and support to survivors of torture and war trauma. They offer medical and psychological care, legal assistance, and advocacy.
Impact: Since their inception, they have supported over 65,000 individuals affected by torture and war trauma.
World Vision
GiveWell Rating - 4 Stars
World Vision, founded in 1950, is a humanitarian organization operating in over 100 countries around the world. Their focus is on many of the issues facing refugees including; emergency relief, health, education, and more.
Impact: In 2022, they reached over 23.4 million children and their families across the globe.
Mercy Corps
GiveWell Rating - 4 Stars
Founded in 1970, Mercy Corps is a global humanitarian organization that provides emergency relief and long-term development assistance to people affected by natural disasters, conflict, and poverty. They have extensive experience working with refugees in various parts of the world.
Impact: In 2022, they reached over 32 million people in 40 countries with programs focused on food security, water and sanitation, healthcare, and economic development.
International Refugee Assistance Project
Charity Navigator - 80%
Founded in 2006, IRAP provides legal assistance to refugees and asylum seekers at various stages of their journeys. They offer pro bono legal representation, training for lawyers, and advocacy for refugee rights.
Impact: Since their inception, IRAP has secured legal victories for thousands of refugees, protecting their rights and access to safe haven.
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