What is World Refugee Day?
Each year on June 20th the world celebrates the strength and courage of people who have been forced to flee their home country to escape conflict or persecution. This year the them e of World Refugee Day is “hope away from home.”
Everyone deserves a safe refuge with food, clean water and access to medical care. Sadly, millions struggle to survive every day. But we can all make a difference. Every action taken - no matter how small - helps.
6 Ways To Make An Impact On World Refugee Day
If you are searching for opportunities to contribute to this year’s World Refugee Day, here are six ways you can make an impact on June 20th.
1. Donate To Organizations On The Frontline
The International Medical Corps is another great organization to donate to, providing emergency response, health services, food security, mental health support and access to sanitation and clean water.
The International Rescue Committee works with more than 40 countries, including Ukraine and Afghanistan, to help restore safety, health, education and economic wellbeing to people in conflict-torn areas.
Prosperity Candle has supported refugees around the world for over a decade and has worked with both of these frontline organizations.
2. Volunteer Your Time
A great way to help refugees integrate into an ever-changing world is to offer as many resources to ease the difficult transition. Giving some of your time can make a big difference.
English lessons, tutoring, transportation, hosting a family– these are all ways to help refugees prosper. Check in with schools, social services and faith organizations in your area to find out what help is needed.
3. Strengthen Community Support
Become an ally for refugees within your community! Help organize food and clothing drives and join others to organize fundraisers or rallies that benefit the refugee community.
Events that celebrate and amplify the voices of refugees raises awareness and gives individuals an incentive to take action.
4. Support Businesses With Ethical Refugee-Made Products
Choosing to purchase refugee-made goods helps ensure employment opportunities and job security. Check out our annual list of 10 Incredible Refugee-Made Products that Give Back to Artisans and the Community We recommend all of these wonderful products and organizations!
We are also excited to announce that Prosperity Candle is now making The Little Market sugar scrubs and soaking salts alongside The Little Market Candles. Like all our candles and reed diffusers, these new products are handmade by women artisans building a brighter future in the U.S. after living for years as refugees, and support refugee families around the world.
5. Read Refugee And Immigrant Stories
One way to gain insight into what refugees experience is to immerse yourself in their stories. Novels such as The Refugees by Viet Thanh Nguyen, Khaled Hosseini’s The Kite Runner, and We Are Displaced: My Journey and Stories from Refugee Girls Around the World by Malala Yousafzai are a good start.
Celebrating and sharing refugee stories raises awareness, builds empathy, and encourages people to take action.
6. Learn About The Immigration Process
There are many misconceptions about the immigration process and positive contributions refugees make to our communities and economy. Becoming familiar with system through your local support organizations helps us all navigate the truth.
Welcoming refugees into this country is not only the right thing to do, it also benefits us all collectively. On June 20th, let’s recognize refugees for their incredible perseverance and contributions to our world.
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