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Ithaca Welcomes Refugees

Ithaca Welcomes Refugees walks alongside refugees and immigrants resettling in Tompkins County, New York. Whether finding a place to live, enrolling in English classes, or rebuilding community, we help newcomers navigate unfamiliar systems and environments, providing needed support.

Current Needs

Donate items for refugees who have arrived in our community
See what's on the list

Volunteer

Assist our refugee partners in their resettlement journeys
Join the volunteer team

Donate

Make a gift to support IWR's programs
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Jan, an Afghan Refugee, and Glen Robertson, an IWR volunteer, smile in front of the United States and Afghanistan flags

Featured Story

With Support from IWR Volunteers, an Afghan Refugee Navigates the Hills and Valleys of Resettlement in Ithaca

As I sat with Jan and IWR volunteer Glen Robertson, their comfort with one another suggested they’ve been friends for years. Yet the two were only introduced in January 2022, when Jan arrived in Ithaca as a refugee from Afghanistan.  

Latest Story

IWR response to Trump administration actions affecting refugees and immigrants
Executive Director Casey Verderosa outlines how IWR has been responding to the changing landscape for refugees and immigrants over the past few months.

Current News

Dispatches from a sanctuary city

IWR Executive Director Casey Verderosa features among guest speakers in 'Ithaca Politics 2025: Perspectives on Ukraine', aired on Pegasys Community Media on March 31. Watch by following the link.

IWR's 10 year anniversary photo competition

Seeking your pictures of Ithaca’s spirit of welcome! Enter by June 16. The best 12 photos will feature in a 2026 IWR calendar.

Key Sponsors

We are grateful to the following organizations currently supporting our programs through grants and sponsorships. 

City Federation of Women's Organizations
Community Foundation of Tompkins County
Legacy Foundation of Tompkins County
Social Service League of Ithaca
United Way of Tompkins County Impact Partner

Stay Connected

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