How are they referred to LSG?
Refugees seeking admission to the U.S. must first register. Those living in refugee camps register with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), while those living outside refugee camps must register with a U.S. Embassy. A few of those who register will be granted admission to the U.S. They are assigned to a national voluntary agency, such as Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service (LIRS), which takes responsibility for their resettlement.

 LIRS then assigns refugees to its affiliate agencies, which includes LSG's Refugee Resettlement Program. We make the final decision to accept or decline a case, based on our assessment of the refugees’ chances to achieve a self-sufficient and fulfilling life in Atlanta.

Which refugees are helped by LSG? Our program assists refugees from anywhere in the world without regard to race, ethnicity, religion, age or gender. We have resettled people from the former Yugoslavia, Vietnam, the former Soviet Union, Iran, Iraq, Somalia, Sudan, Ethiopia, Sierra Leone, Liberia, and other countries worldwide.
Family or friends previously resettled by LSG sponsor many of our refugees, with our assistance. Georgia families, churches, and civic organizations also sponsor families. We also accept many cases without a pre-assigned sponsor.

  What work is involved in resettlement?
We are responsible for the refugees’ first 180 days in the U.S. When an arrival is confirmed, a case manager or sponsor locates an apartment and pays the deposit and first month’s rent. Minimal furnishings are supplied, including mattresses, a table and chairs, a couch, linens, dishes, and cooking utensils. Most items are donated, many by our local Lutheran congregations. We have a list of needed items.

 One of our staff or the sponsor greets the new arrivals at the airport and takes them to their new home. At arrival, they receive a small one-time cash grant.

 The next few days are a whirlwind of activity, as the newcomers are helped to obtain social security cards, health services, school registration, and to meet other basic needs. Most important is the assistance refugees receive in finding employment, as they are expected to become economically self-sufficient as quickly as possible. Almost 100% of LSG’s resettled adult refugees are employed within 8 weeks of their arrival. We are proud to add that some have gained employment within our agency and provide a valuable source of support and understanding to our future clients.

 The newcomers may be referred to other LSG programs, including Refugee Employment Services,  English  Language Instruction, and Immigration Services.

Throughout their first 6 months, the new arrivals receive hands-on help from their case managers, and from our open-hearted volunteers.

Can I volunteer to help? What would I do?
There are many different ways to assist new arrivals. Much of what you can do depends on the amount of time you wish to donate, your interests, and your skills. We will assist you in finding the right volunteer experience. Your friendship is the greatest gift you can offer to refugees during their first difficult months of transition to a new country, a new language, and a new culture. 

We also depend upon volunteers to donate the items which will be needed to set up apartments for the arriving refugees. Please check out our Apartment Kit Wish List for ideas on items that can be donated. 

Amazon.com now allows organizations to create "wish lists" which operate much like a bridal gift registry. Give it a try and help our Refugee Services outfit apartments.

You are also encouraged to contact us for additional information at 404-875-0201.  

Can I sponsor a refugee family?
Yes. An individual or a group may sponsor refugees. Sponsorship can also involve a financial commitment. LSG works with you in planning an amount you are comfortable in giving. When necessary, we supplement that amount to ensure that the family you sponsor receives the essentials for starting their lives.