Refugee Assistance Alliance

Refugee Assistance Alliance trains ordinary people to help refugees newly arrived in South Florida. Over half of Florida’s refugees settle in Miami-Dade County. The need for support is growing, and RAA is responding to an increasing waitlist of refugees seeking help.

WE HELP refugees legally resettled in South Florida — one of the most vulnerable populations in the United States. When they arrive, refugees bring little with them other than hope. Without English language skills or US-recognized education and technical qualifications, it is incredibly difficult for them to secure stable employment, pay rent, access essential benefits and put food on the table for their children. 

WHY WE HELP 

Refugees face extreme poverty, social isolation and loneliness. They have lost their extended families and support networks, and their isolation is compounded by differences in language, culture and past trauma as well as continual anxiety over housing instability, food insecurity, and educational challenges for their children. Refugees struggle to escape persistent poverty, and integration seems out of reach.

HOW WE HELP 

Refugees have shown extraordinary strength and resilience to join our community, and our vision is to help our community join together to welcome refugees, help them understand our language and our ways, feel at home among us, and access opportunities for growth. RAA staff and volunteers provide wraparound support, focusing on five key impacts:

Economic Stability: RAA’s clients arrive in the USA with nothing and face the harsh realities of persistent poverty. We provide funds, resources and guidance to help refugees break the cycle of poverty and build stable, secure futures for their families.

English: Without English, refugees live in a world of silence, unable to communicate with employers, teachers, doctors, and neighbors. RAA helps refugees to find their voice, break free from isolation, and unlock opportunities through language.

Emotional Support: Refugees have lost their networks of friends, family, and community support, leaving them feeling loneliness and isolation. RAA’s volunteers step in as mentors and friends, providing emotional support while helping refugees navigate their new lives.

Employment: Refugees struggle to demonstrate their skills to potential employers. RAA helps refugees identify their transferable skills, build their confidence, and secure jobs that offer growth and stability.

Education: The refugee journey often disrupts education and career paths. At RAA, we help refugees access education, vocational training, and professional qualifications to rebuild their careers, gain promotions, and thrive in their new lives.

YOU CAN HELP US

Give: Please, give us your support on Give Miami Day. Your donation today directly impacts refugee families in South Florida. Every gift helps provide critical assistance - English classes, education & employment support, and community volunteer training. 

Give monthly: Become a sustaining supporter by giving monthly. Your generosity ensures that refugees receive consistent, long-term support as they rebuild their lives and work toward self-sufficiency.

Together, we can help vulnerable families transition from crisis to stability and self-sufficiency. With the support of people like you, newcomers to our community can begin to thrive and be happy in their new home.