The Alabama Interfaith Refugee Partnership (ALIRP), in partnership with the Birmingham Islamic Society and other organizations, has committed to sponsoring one or more Afghan refugee families through Inspiritus. We are hoping to raise at least $6,000 in order to sponsor at least two families. PLEASE click here for the Go Fund page.
Like many of our friends and neighbors, we watched the chaotic scenes in Afghanistan last month. We knew that so many lives – many of whom have spent the last 20 years helping American forces – were about to be upended. As the only 501(c)3 in Birmingham dedicated to supporting refugees and asylum-seekers, the Alabama Interfaith Refugee Partnership (ALIRP) immediately began exploring ways we could support Afghan refugees making their way to the U.S. to start a new life.
As we explored our options, we learned that the only agency approved by the U.S. State Department to resettle refugees in Alabama (Catholic Social Services in Mobile) does not have plans at this time to resettle refugees fleeing Afghanistan. However, the Atlanta-based Inspiritus Refugee and Immigrant Services program (affiliated with the Lutheran Refugee Resettlement program) will be helping to resettle a large number of Afghan refugees in the Atlanta area starting in September 2021. Inspiritus is seeking sponsors for these families (requiring a commitment of 6 months of sponsorship for $3000).
The ALIRP, in partnership with the Birmingham Islamic Society and the Birmingham Jewish Community, has committed to sponsoring one or more Afghan refugee families through Inspiritus. We are hoping to raise at least $6,000 in order to sponsor at least two families. PLEASE click here for the Go Fund page.
There may also be opportunities for ALIRP volunteers to provide language instruction to Afghan refugees in Atlanta using social media. To explore volunteer opportunities with ALIRP, please complete our Volunteer Interest form online .
We are excited about this opportunity to demonstrate that Alabamians care about our Afghan brothers and sisters. After spending the last two decades supporting American interests and values, we feel it is the least we can do to show up during this difficult transition and welcome these families into our communities.
To learn more about ALIRP, visit our website here.
To learn more about Inspiritus, visit their website here.
