5 Ways to Support Refugees in Ireland
Ireland has become home to many refugees fleeing conflict, persecution, and hardship. While the Irish government plays a role in providing support, we can also make a significant difference. Whether through donations, volunteering, or advocacy, there are many ways to assist refugees in building a new life in Ireland. Here are five simple ways to get involved.
1. Donate to Organisations Supporting Refugees:
One of the easiest ways to help is by donating to organisations that provide critical support to refugees in Ireland. Many groups offer services like housing assistance, education, and legal aid.
Where to donate:
Your donations can help fund programs that support refugee families and individuals in need.
2. Volunteer with Refugee Support Organisations
Volunteering your time and skills can make a direct and positive impact on the lives of refugees. From teaching English to mentoring, volunteers are a crucial part of helping refugees integrate into Irish society.
How to volunteer:
- Irish Red Cross Migration Services
- Doras
- Spirasi- Support for survivors of torture
Volunteers can help refugees with everything from learning the language to navigating daily life in a new country.
3. Advocate for Refugee Rights
You can also make a difference by advocating for refugee rights. Whether it’s through lobbying the government for fairer asylum policies or raising awareness in your community, advocacy is key to making long-term change.
Get involved in advocacy:
- Migrant Rights Centre Ireland
- Movement of Asylum Seekers in Ireland
Advocacy work helps ensure that the voices of refugees are heard and that policies evolve to protect their rights.
4. Support Refugee-Owned/ Operated Businesses
Economic empowerment is a crucial part of refugee integration. Many refugees in Ireland have started their own businesses, ranging from food services to creative industries. Supporting these businesses not only provides financial stability but also fosters community connections.
Find refugee-owned businesses:
- Laochas – The Green Guardian (Eco-conscious products by a Syrian refugee)
- Our Table A social enterprise that raises awareness of the rights of asylum seekers)
- We Make Good Textiles - We employ and train refugees to manufacture textile products.
When you shop from or promote refugee-owned businesses, you can contribute directly to their economic independence.
5. Offer Accommodation or Sponsorship
Housing remains one of the biggest challenges for refugees in Ireland. If you have the capacity, offering accommodation or becoming involved in community sponsorship can have a profound impact on refugee families.
How to get involved:
- Irish Red Cross – Pledge Accommodation
- Community Sponsorship Ireland
- Nasc’s Refugee Housing Programme
- Accommodation Recognition Payment
These programs connect Irish residents with refugees in need of accommodation, offering them a safe place to live while they rebuild their lives.
Supporting refugees in Ireland can take many forms, from financial contributions and volunteering to advocacy and direct sponsorship. Every effort, big or small, helps to create a more welcoming and inclusive society for those seeking safety and new opportunities in Ireland.
