Private Refugee Sponsorship
Private Refugee Sponsorship

Welcome Corps – Private Refugee Sponsorship: A New Era of Community Support

Understanding Welcome Corps

Welcome Corps represents a groundbreaking shift in how America welcomes refugees, putting the power of sponsorship directly into the hands of everyday citizens. Launched in 2023, this innovative program enables private citizens to step up and make a real difference in refugees’ lives. Have you ever wondered how you could personally help someone rebuild their life in America? Well, now you can.

What is Private Refugee Sponsorship?

Private refugee sponsorship turns the traditional refugee resettlement model on its head. Instead of relying solely on government agencies and established resettlement organizations, this program empowers ordinary Americans to become directly involved in welcoming and supporting refugees. Think of it as adopting a family into your community – except here, you’re helping real people find their footing in a new country.

The Birth of Welcome Corps

Program Goals and Vision

Welcome Corps emerged from a simple yet powerful idea: communities are often better positioned to help refugees integrate than large institutions. The program aims to resettle at least 10,000 refugees annually through private sponsorship, creating a web of support across the nation.

Follow the steps below to apply

To apply as a refugee for resettlement in the United States, you must go through the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP). Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:

  1. Register with the UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees)
  • Contact the UNHCR Office in your current location or the nearest refugee agency.
  • The UNHCR assesses your case, determines if you qualify as a refugee, and may refer you to a resettlement program such as the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP).
  • You can visit the UNHCR website for more information: www.unhcr.org
  1. Referral to the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP)
  • If you are referred, you will undergo an initial screening by a Resettlement Support Center (RSC).
  • You may also apply through certain non-governmental organizations (NGOs) or U.S. embassies if eligible.
  1. Interview with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
  • USCIS officers will interview you to confirm whether you meet the definition of a refugee under U.S. immigration law.
  • They will evaluate your eligibility, including security screenings and background checks.
  1. Medical Examination and Security Clearance
  • You will need to pass a medical examination and security clearance before final approval.
  • The U.S. government ensures all applicants meet health and safety standards.
  1. Approval and Travel Arrangements
  • If approved, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) or other partners will assist with travel arrangements.
  • You will also receive cultural orientation sessions before departing for the U.S.
  1. Resettlement and Support Services
  • Upon arrival, a local resettlement agency will help you with housing, employment, education, and community integration.

Key Resources for Refugee Applications

If you are already in the U.S. and seeking asylum, you may need to apply for asylum status instead of refugee status. For this, you should file Form I-589, Application for Asylum with USCIS.

How Welcome Corps Works

Sponsorship Group Formation

Like a barn-raising in pioneer days, Welcome Corps relies on community cooperation. Groups of at least five adults come together, pooling their resources, skills, and time to sponsor a refugee or refugee family.

Group Requirements

To become sponsors, groups must demonstrate their ability to:

  • Raise a minimum of $2,375 per refugee
  • Commit to at least 90 days of support
  • Pass background checks
  • Complete required training

ACCESS OTHER SCHOLARSHIPS HERE

 

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