RHP North America

The Refugee Highway in North America provides a great opportunity to get new ideas, be encouraged, and connect with others who are committed to welcoming the “stranger in our midst.”

Refugees in North America

Each year, thousands of refugees from across the globe find a new home in North America.  Whether they come from Tibet, Sudan, Iraq, Burma, Congo, Somalia or another part of the world, all refugees share a similar journey.

Refugees differ from other immigrants in that they do not have the choice to remain in their home country.  Refugees run from war and persecution, often losing friends and family members along the way.  Many refugees spend years and sometimes decades in dangerous and overcrowded refugee camps. Less than 1% of all refugees get the opportunity to rebuild their lives in freedom and safety in a new homeland.

When refugees arrive in North America, they usually bring little more than the clothes on their backs. They face a wide variety of challenges and hardships as they struggle to start over in a new language and culture.  These include locating a place to live, learning a new language, navigating the public transportation system, getting children enrolled in school, finding a doctor and getting a job.  Refugees must also overcome past trauma and grief and develop new support systems.

North American Refugee Round Table

The annual North American Refugee Roundtable event is designed for leaders from church/faith-based refugee ministry organizations in the United States and Canada.  The goal is to discuss best practices, share ideas and explore ways to work together in supporting, encouraging and resourcing ministry with refugees.  The Roundtable format will provide opportunities for dialogue, panel discussions, small group interaction and networking.

The event is hosted by a local leadership team on behalf of the Refugee Highway Partnership, a global grassroots network that is connecting and equipping refugee ministry leaders. Prior North American Refugee Roundtables have been held in Chicago in 2009 and in Toronto in 2010.

Look for information about upcoming North American Round Tables in Events.