International Institute of Rhode Island's mission is to enable all area residents, especially immigrants and refugees, to become self-reliant, invested participants in our communities, while fostering respect and understanding among all people. Read more

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new refugee arrivals need your help!

Help a new refugee arrival by purchasing much needed household items.

Refugee resettlement is a humanitarian effort that benefits some of the most vulnerable people on the planet.  This summer and fall IIRI will be resettling over 90 refugees, helping them to start life over in a new country.  Many of these refugees are from Africa, where they have spent years in refugee camps and have experienced severe trauma and disruption in their lives.  We are also resettling Iraqi refugees, who were forced to flee their country because of their support and association with the U.S. military, which resulted in them becoming the target of local insurgents and terrorists.  All of these new arrivals have one thing in common—a desire to become self sufficient, activity participants in their new community as soon as possible.

IIRI provides initial support to these individuals and families by helping with every basic need, from shelter too food to emotional support, in additional to education and job placement.

Help these newcomers build a new life by filling a laundry basket with some of the items listed on our website to help get a Refugee Family started in their new life and furnish their first apartment. 

IIRI has set-up an easy way for you to purchase some necessary items through Target. You can view and shop this list online at Target.com or in stores at a registry kiosk. (We are listed at TargetLists as First Name: International, Last Name: Institute Rhode Island!) Every purchase will go to a newly arriving family this summer and fall.

On behalf of our refugee clients, thank you for your generous support!

If you have furniture or other large or unusual items please contact donation coordinator John Cotrona at 401-784-9685 to assess current needs and arrange delivery.