Utahns Show Support for Refugees

Have you ever been forced to flee your country to escape violence, persecution and a corrupt government? According to the UNHCR, UN Refugee Agency, approximately 65.6 million people around the world have been forced to from their homes, and among the high number, 22.5 million are refugees, with half of them being under the age of 18.

A refugee is defined as a person who flees to a foreign country or power to escape danger or persecution (Merriam-Webster) Organizations have been set up to help the displaced people all over the world. Foundations give millions of dollars to aid incoming refugees into the United States, with California and Texas having the highest rate of refugees out of all 50 states in the country.

Though Utah has many refugees, the state is lacking in comparison to others. There are many Utah based organizations who help immigrants and refugees, with a few of the organizations being The Utah Refugee connection, Women of the World and the International Rescue Committee. All three focus on helping refugees through times of crisis, and there are, of course, many ways in which people can help out. One of the most effective ways is to volunteer for events to raise awareness within the community. An upcoming event takes place November 5 called Breaking Bread, where people will be joined by refugee families at the table for a Thanksgiving dinner, record video welcome messages, and express messages of solidarity on a chalk wall in the venue. Tickets are $75 for children and $100 for adults. For more information, check the International Rescue Committee homepage.

Food drives and donations are also very beneficial. Items such as toiletries, hygiene products, household supplies, and baby products are the most needed items. There are many Salt Lake City drop off locations for such items. The DWS Employment Center, Refugee Education, and Training Center, and the Catholic Community Services are just a handful of drop off locations. Refugees are located everywhere around the world and there are so many ways to help them. Online donations for any organization are always helpful. Giving small items or even a few dollars a month can make such a big difference. As Viktor Orban said, “We should involve the whole world in the handling of this refugee crisis.”