A smiling young man.

 
 

 
 

Ways you can help Refugees

Volunteer

RAIS works with volunteers from the community, college interns and practicum students, and groups looking to do special volunteer projects.  Click here to download the RAIS volunteer opportunites brochure.

Donate

When new arrivals come to the U.S., they are often bringing very few belongings. RAIS relies on the support of donors to provide new and gently used items to families to help them establish their new lives in the U.S.

Donation Wishlist

Some of our most commonly needed items are:

  • New bed pillows
  • Blankets
  • Pots, pans and bakeware
  • Cleaning products, mops and brooms
  • Winter coats, boots, gloves and hats
  • Personal care items (such as shampoo, soap and deodorant)
  • Towels 

Specific Projects

Revolving Security Deposit Fund - contributing to this fund will loan a newly arriving family the money for their first security deposit.

Garden Project Support - RAIS coordinates a project that allows some of our clients to learn about growing a small crop to sell at the farmer's market. Contributions can purchase tools, fertilizers, seeds and plants. Look for the Fresh International Gardens booth at the Anchorage Market & Festival farmer's markets to purchase produce from our project.

General

  • A $10 will buy a snow and ice scraper to help refugees be prepared in Alaska's winter.
  • A $25 contribution can purchase an English Language Training book.
  • A $50 contribution can replace the batteries in a refugee's hearing aid.
  • A $100 contribution will help RAIS publish brochures and other items to raise awareness about refugee issues.
  • A $1,000 contribution can pay for a month's rent for a family; or can pay for a series of classes to help a new arrival gain employment skills (such as classes for a Certified Driver's License or a Certified Nurse's Assistant).

Other ways to contribute financially:

  • Give a refugee a job or inform RAIS staff about job openings that you are aware of.
  • Provide tickets and coupons, such as zoo or museum passes, movie tickets, and restaurant gift certificates to support new arrivals in learning about the U.S.