Resource Portal for COVID-19

A GRSI blog to support sponsorship organizations around the world

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Communities helping communities

There are currently 1.2 million refugees around the world in need of a safe place to live. Community sponsorship programs can help.

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Building support for refugees—one community at a time

Creating a community sponsorship program ‎can increase and improve refugee resettlement. Learn what’s involved in the Guidebook.

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Every day, 33,972 people are forced to flee their homes because of conflict and persecution.

Source: UNHCR December 2016

 

  • What is the Global Refugee Sponsorship Initiative?

    GRSI helps countries create opportunities for their citizens to participate directly in the humanitarian effort to support the world's refugees via community-based sponsorship programs.

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  • Community sponsorship of refugees

    Community-based programs allow private citizens and organizations to welcome refugees to their country. These people agree to provide funds for living expenses and they offer social support to newcomers as they settle into their new communities.

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  • Design a community sponsorship program

    Countries around the world can build programs that allow citizens to welcome refugees into their communities. Learn what’s involved in creating a program.

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Community sponsorship enriches lives

Canada started its private sponsorship program in 1979. Since then, sponsors have welcomed more than 300,000* refugees. A community group in Newfoundland shares its experiences.

*As of January 2017.

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