International Rescue Committee in Iowa

‼️Did you know that the IRC in Iowa offers a free, confidential, and survivor‑centered case management for adults and youth who have experienced labor or s*x trafficking and who do not have U.S. citizenship or a Green Card?

We support people by helping them access safety, basic needs, legal and medical referrals, education and employment supports, and pathways toward long‑term stability and healing. 💛

If you or someone you know may benefit from this program, help is available. Reach out to our office for more information.

We’re grateful to Greater Iowa Credit Union for featuring the International Rescue Committee in Iowa through their Give Iowa Program this past year!

Their partnership and community‑centered support help make our work possible, and we truly appreciate their commitment to uplifting organizations that strengthen Iowa communities.

Thank you, GICU! 💙

Are you or someone you know a newcomer experiencing the impacts of trauma? Remember that you’re not alone — and help is here. The STAR program is available in our Central and Eastern Iowa offices.

Today we celebrate Nowruz, Eid al‑Fitr, and the International Day of Happiness—a beautiful convergence of renewal, gratitude, generosity, and hope. Across traditions, this day reminds us of new beginnings, shared joy, and caring for one another. Wishing everyone a blessed, joyful day filled with peace and happiness. 💛✨

Feeling at home shouldn’t be a privilege—it should be something every newcomer has the chance to experience. 💛

At IRC Iowa, we’re honored to walk alongside clients as they rebuild their lives here. Moments like this remind us why the work matters:

If you believe in creating a welcoming Iowa where all families can thrive, join us:
➡️ Volunteer https://www.rescue.org/volunteer-opportunities/des-moines-ia
➡️ Donate https://help.rescue.org/donate/us-desmoines-ia
➡️ Advocate for welcoming policies

Together, we can make Iowa home. 🏡

We were grateful to be able to join partners and community members in celebrating Johnson County, Iowa's Certified Welcoming Designation from Welcoming America ! 🎉🌍

This recognition reflects years of hard work, collaboration, and a shared vision for a community where everyone feels they belong. At IRC Iowa, we know we cannot do this work alone—and Johnson County’s achievement underscores just how powerful it is when neighbors, organizations, and local leaders come together to build a more inclusive place for all.

Congratulations to Johnson County, and thank you to everyone who continues to help make Iowa a welcoming home for newcomers. 🤝

Last week, IRC Iowa was honored to participate in Refugee Day on the Hill, organized by Refugee Alliance of Central Iowa.
We were joined by incredible friends, colleagues, and supporters as we met with legislators to share why Iowa’s long tradition of welcoming newcomers matters now more than ever. Together, we highlighted the positive impact refugees bring to our communities and how thoughtful policies can help families continue to thrive here in Iowa.
A huge thank‑you to everyone who showed up, spoke up, and stood with us. Your partnership strengthens our work every day. 🌍

Join us and all of our friends at the 2026 Iowa Refugee & Immigrant Day on the Hill this Thursday!

We look forward to seeing everyone this Thursday for the 2026 Iowa Refugee & Immigrant Day on the Hill! If you are interested in attending, please reach out to [email protected].

Lutheran Services in Iowa USCRI Des Moines International Rescue Committee in Iowa Catholic Charities, Des Moines Diocese EMBARC: Ethnic Minorities of Burma Advocacy and Resource Center Nisaa African Family Services Iowa MMJ

We’re alarmed by a newly released U.S. government memo claiming sweeping authority to arrest and detain refugees who have lived in the country for at least a year but have not yet been granted lawful permanent residency.
Refugees arrive only after completing the most rigorous security vetting the government conducts for travelers to the United States. Admitted refugees come with the understanding that once here, they can begin healing, working, and contributing to their new communities. Detaining them after admission and resettlement—without cause and without regard for the trauma they have already endured—undermines the U.S. commitment to protect refugees embodied by the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program.
The IRC calls on the administration to immediately halt the rollout of this policy and unnecessary re‑vetting efforts.

We’re alarmed by a newly released U.S. government memo claiming sweeping authority to arrest and detain refugees who have lived in the country for at least a year but have not yet been granted lawful permanent residency.

Refugees arrive only after completing the most rigorous security vetting the government conducts for travelers to the United States. Admitted refugees come with the understanding that once here, they can begin healing, working, and contributing to their new communities. Detaining them after admission and resettlement—without cause and without regard for the trauma they have already endured—undermines the U.S. commitment to protect refugees embodied by the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program.

The IRC calls on the administration to immediately halt the rollout of this policy and unnecessary re‑vetting efforts.

Love this piece from our friends at The Refugee Advocacy Lab about how newcomers have found ways to bridge customs from home with new traditions they’ve created in their new homes! 🤩

Ramadan, Roots, & Refuge: Collective Members Reflect on Faith Traditions — Refugee Storytellers Collective Ramadan, Roots, & Refuge: Collective Members Reflect on Faith Traditions Mar 31 Written By Tara Faik For many Muslims, nationally and globally, the sacred month of Ramadan is a time for deep reflection, prayer, and delicious Iftars with loved ones. Each year, Muslims prepare for Ramadan in a myriad....