Community Sponsorship
What is Community Sponsorship
Community Sponsorship Ireland provides a unique approach to refugee resettlement by empowering local communities to actively support refugees as they rebuild their lives in Ireland. This community-led model complements traditional state programmes, fostering better integration and a sense of belonging for refugee families.
Refugees participating in this programme are already recognised by the UNHCR and invited to Ireland under the Irish Refugee Protection Programme.
How Community Sponsorship works
Community groups come together to support refugee families, from their arrival at the airport to long-term integration. Each group is trained and supported by the National Support Organisations (NSO), which we are a part of.
Key Support Provided:
- Duration: Groups offer support for up to two years.
- Financial Assistance: Groups raise at least €10,000 to cover integration costs, including up to €2,000 in-kind contributions.
- Housing: Groups secure housing for 24 months, often using Housing Assistance Payments.
- Local Integration: This includes:
- Assisting with essential documentation
- Connecting families to medical and social services
- Facilitating English language learning, education, and employment
Our Role As A National Support Organisation
The Irish Refugee Council, as part of the NSO, collaborates with Nasc, Doras, and the Red Cross to guide and support community groups sponsoring refugee families. With years of experience as a Regional Support Organisation, we’ve successfully helped communities across Ireland integrate resettled refugees.
We are always looking for new communities and individuals eager to make a difference and help bring families to safety in Ireland.
Why Get Involved?
Community Sponsorship is an enriching and rewarding experience. It fosters solidarity, cultural exchange, and a renewed sense of community. Volunteers often highlight the joy of sharing traditions and welcoming refugees into the Irish community.
Most importantly, you and your community could be saving a life like Hoda's by offering your support.
Hoda's StoryGet Involved
The Irish Refugee Council provides training, resources, and guidance to communities interested in sponsoring a refugee family. We've supported many groups that have welcomed refugees families into their communities. Please contact us to express interest or inquire about this work.
Funding
This work is funded by the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration.