The Refuge Initiative

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The Refuge Initiative

The Refuge Initiative is a division of World Orphans that is responding to the deepening refugee/IDP and humanitarian crisis unfolding in Northern Iraq.

The Refuge Initiative: Building Communities of Hope

Building camps of refuge, restoring dignity and hope, and providing pathways back to independent living for those running from persecution. Building Camps of Refuge
On September 9, 2014 The Refuge Initiative opened the very first refugee camp in the Soran, Iraq on the grounds of its community center known as The Refuge. What began as a desire to help 20 Shabak families has turned into a regional effort to build camps of refuge for the most vulnerable IDP and refugee families. In partnership with the local governments of Soran and Rwandz – and with the involvement of several charities and NGO’s – The Refuge Initiative is providing shelter, food, water and electricity to more than 80 Yezidi and Shabak families (500+ individuals) at three separate locations. Each camp is uniquely built with kitchen, bathroom and living areas specific for the needs of each family unit. Restoring Dignity and Hope
At the heart of our humanitarian efforts is to build communities of hope at each of our camps. We do this by keeping the size of each camp no larger than 50 families, and where possible, from the same family or tribal background. This enables us to preserve existing social and relational structures, promotes autonomy and maintains the dignity of those in our care. In the face of incredible suffering and persecution we believe that our model of refugee care builds the platform for hope to rise up within the lives of every individual. Pathway Back to Independence
The Refuge Initiative is not only building places of refuge, but we are also actively involved in providing those within our care pathways to recovery and independent living. Our community center, The Refuge, is a fully functioning vocational training and education center equipped with classrooms, a conference room, event hall and soccer stadium. We are currently partnering with internationally renowned clinical psychologists and organizations to provide access to leading mental health at all our locations. In addition to providing substantial employment to dozens of IDP’s and refugees through the construction of our camps, many have started small businesses in the local markets or have found other work.

05/08/2025

We’re excited to offer free haircuts to the children in our camp, and we’re deeply thankful to the local barbers who generously volunteered their time and skills. World Orphans

31/07/2025

We are delighted to share that we have successfully relocated another Syrian family into our camp. They have completed all the necessary paperwork and received medical checkups at our clinic.

Thank you for your continued support in providing them with a home and assisting them in moving toward a more independent and stable life, as well as access to better education.

14/07/2025

The second round of exam results has been announced at our school! Congratulations to all our students for their efforts and progress. World Orphans

05/07/2025

Another chapter of success has recently been written at our vocational training center. This could be the start of a new career path for our learners—one that empowers them to support their families financially. Their smiles and achievements speak volumes about how proud they are of their progress and how impactful your generous support truly is. World Orphans

04/07/2025

Happy Independence Day to all Americans around the world! Wishing you a joyful celebration filled with pride, unity, and freedom.🇺🇸✨

24/06/2025

The second round of our second term examinations has begun at school. We wish all our students the best of luck and great success in their exams!
World Orphans

20/06/2025

This photos showcase a live session from our sewing training program in our vocational training center.
Keep us in your thoughts and prayers during this unstable situation in the Middle East!! World Orphans

06/06/2025

جەژنتان پیرۆز
Eid Mubarak
العيد المبارك

05/06/2025

We are thrilled to announce that the World Orphans Vocational Training Center has resumed its sewing classes for both refugee and local women. This initiative is designed to empower participants with essential skills to start their own businesses and support their families.
By promoting economic independence and community integration, we aim to make a positive impact on vulnerable populations in Iraq. We look forward to seeing these women thrive and contribute to their communities. World Orphans

03/06/2025

With the release of the second semester results, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to our dear students for their dedication and the remarkable progress they’ve made throughout the year!!
Way to go guys World Orphans

27/05/2025

"Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from Him." — Psalm 127:3

We are thrilled to share that our refugee ,Local and IDP students have successfully graduated from preschool and are now confidently stepping into the next chapter of their educational journey. Their dedication and perseverance are truly a blessing to
witness.
We express our heartfelt gratitude for the unwavering support and donations from our generous supporters. Your contributions have played a significant role in this achievement.
Thank you very much. May God bless you all.
World Orphans

17/05/2025

Wishing all our students the very best as they begin their second semester exams today at Tabeen Primary Mixed School. You’ve got this!
World Orphans

Address

Soran
Irbil
N/A

Telephone

+1 (888) 677-4267

Website

http://www.SponsorARefugee.com/

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