Over 42 million refugees have been forced to flee their native countries because of religious persecution, ethnic discrimination, war, and political unrest. Neighboring nations have allowed these refugees in, but the load is excessive for these countries to bear alone. Refugees are still considered stateless and struggle to provide the basics for their families, give their children an education, and survive continued persecution.

Many refugees cannot qualify for food, healthcare, or obtain work permits. They are penalized by deportation if found working without work permits. Deportation can be a “death sentence” as they would be returning to the countries from which they escaped. Some become “refugees recycled” – unpaid labor by unscrupulous employers. Others become victims of human trafficking. Many continue to be actively hunted by the family, tribal, or terrorist violence they fled and cannot leave their shelters without risking assault, or worse.

Although many refugees are educated with professional or academic degrees, they are not allowed to support their families. Most apply to be resettled to a welcoming country through their new location’s refugee office or the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.

Refugees live “a life in limbo,” waiting in hopes of being resettled one day into a new country that will provide safety, independence, and hope. But most never are and a generational poverty and hopelessness ensues. Arm in Arm Outreach was created to help them. We help resolve immediate needs then help families identify or build skills to facilitate successful resettlement.

You can bring hope to refugees by volunteering or donating today.