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How to Help Refugees—Wherever You Are

Child sitting at a table while an adult writes on paper, with a group of people gathered outdoors in the background

Today, more than 117 million people worldwide have been forcibly displaced by conflict, violence, and persecution. Of these, over 41 million are refugees who have fled across borders in search of safety. (unhcr.org)

Behind each number is a person—a family forced to leave their home, often with little more than hope for a safer future.

From long-standing crises like the war in Syria to newer conflicts and climate‑related displacement, the need for compassionate, sustained support has never been greater.

You may be wondering: What can I actually do?

The good news is this:

You don’t need to live in a specific country or sponsor a family to make a meaningful difference. There are many ways—big and small—to support refugees, wherever you are.

6 Ways You Can Help Refugees Globally

1. Advocate for just and compassionate policies

Refugees’ futures are deeply shaped by public policy. You can help by:

  • Contacting elected officials about refugee protection and resettlement
  • Supporting policies that uphold dignity and human rights
  • Joining advocacy campaigns that amplify refugee voices

Even small actions—emails, calls, or community conversations—can influence systems that affect millions.

👉 Learn more about advocacy and prayer opportunities through World Renew.

2. Pray with purpose

As people of faith, prayer is a powerful way to stand alongside those who are suffering. You can pray for:

  • Families who have been forced to flee their homes
  • Peace and resolution in areas of conflict
  • Strength for those rebuilding their lives in new communities
  • Wisdom for leaders making decisions that impact refugees

Prayer connects us to God’s heart for justice, mercy, and compassion.

3. Give to support global response efforts

Financial support enables both immediate relief and long‑term change. Through trusted organisations, your giving can help:

  • Provide food, shelter, and emergency aid
  • Support education and livelihood programmes
  • Strengthen communities hosting displaced families

👉 Learn how World Renew responds to disasters and supports displaced communities worldwide.

4. Volunteer your time and skills

Your skills can make a meaningful impact—locally or globally. You might:

  • Teach language skills or tutor newcomers
  • Offer professional expertise (legal, medical, counselling, employment support)
  • Assist with community programmes serving refugees

Whether you serve in your local community or through global initiatives, your time helps create pathways to stability and belonging.

👉 Explore volunteer opportunities with World Renew.

5. Help build welcoming communities

One of the greatest challenges refugees face is isolation. You don’t need to lead a formal sponsorship to make a difference. You can:

  • Welcome newcomers into your church or neighbourhood
  • Offer friendship, mentorship, or practical help navigating daily life
  • Support local organisations that assist refugees

Simple acts of hospitality can restore dignity and help people feel at home again.

In some contexts—such as Canada—this kind of support may also take the form of formal refugee sponsorship, where churches and community groups walk alongside newcomers in a structured way.

👉 Learn more about refugee sponsorship and resettlement opportunities in Canada.

6. Raise awareness and mobilise others

Awareness leads to action. You can:

  • Share refugee stories and facts with your community
  • Host discussions, events, or church learning sessions
  • Use your voice on social media to highlight global needs

The more people who understand the realities refugees face, the more collective action becomes possible.

👉 Explore events and opportunities to connect with others who care about this work.

How World Renew Is Responding

World Renew works alongside local partners, churches, and communities around the world to support refugees and people who have been displaced. This includes:

  • Emergency response in times of crisis
  • Long‑term development and livelihood support
  • Partnerships that strengthen local capacity and resilience
  • Refugee sponsorship and resettlement programmes in countries like Canada

Meet Amina, who lost everything during the war in Syria. Through World Renew’s partnerships with local churches in Lebanon, she and her daughters have access to essential support and the opportunity to continue their education—offering hope for a more stable future.

Across all of our work, we are committed to walking alongside people as they rebuild their lives with dignity, resilience, and hope.

Join in Supporting Refugees

Leviticus 19:33–34 reminds us:

“When a foreigner resides among you in your land, do not mistreat them… Love them as yourself.”

We are called to love our neighbours—especially those who are most vulnerable.

Whether you choose to pray, give, advocate, volunteer, or help build welcoming communities, your actions matter.

Together, we can support refugees as they seek safety, rebuild their lives, and look toward the future with hope.

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