"Love is never wasted, for its value does not rest on reciprocity.”

- C.S. Lewis

Your investment in the people we welcomed together was unconditional... And your love for them has made a world of difference.

Your Impact in FY24: Read stories of inspiring individuals positively impacted by our programs

In 2024, we welcomed a record number of new arrivals.

743 newly arrived refugees received care, compassion and support. You have been a part of this vital work this past year, and through these stories you’ll see a glimpse of the incredible impact you have made.

Hear their stories

The Villanueva family playing in the park

The Villanueva Family: What’s It Like to Be a New Arrival?

It was a challenge from the beginning. Moving to a new country is never easy – much less so as a refugee family with only three bags of possessions and limited English. But the Villanueva family stayed open to the experience and embraced life in a new city. Read the article.

A Taste of Syria: Refugee Chef Finds Success in Spokane

Abdulkareem remembered when the war came to his town in Syria. He watched the bomb fall through the sky and hit the ground within a split second. He saw it hit. Read the article.

Farah sits on the couch alongside her father and siblings.

Medically Fragile Child Receives Care through World Relief

Farah, four, was born in Türkiye with Epidermolysis Bullosa. This rare condition is characterized by fragile skin that blisters and itches. Her hands and feet are webbed closed as her skin melts and molds. Read the article.

A Passion for Crocheting Made Spokane Home for This Ukrainian Family

Inna and her 10-year-old daughter, Sabina arrived in Spokane this spring. The war in Ukraine has driven 3.7 million people from their homes. After trying all sorts of activities, they discovered crocheting. Sabina picked up the skill quickly. Read the article.

English Conversation Club participants counting money

All About English Conversation Club

It was a Friday morning in English Conversation Club, and these refugees were counting American currency. They came from Russia, Venezuela, Sudan… However, they all had one thing in common: a desire to learn English. Read the article.

Former Olympian, Susie Luby Volunteers at World Relief Spokane

Susie Luby, who won the bronze medal in Alpine downhill skiing in 1972, started volunteering for World Relief Spokane in February of this year. Before that, she said the refugee situation wasn’t really on her radar. “Not at all.” Read the article.

Thank you for investing in our refugee neighbors.

Together We Make a Difference: A Message From the Executive Director

2024 was a year of remarkable growth and opportunity for World Relief Spokane as we welcomed a record number of newly arrived refugees into our community. As the global crisis of people displaced by conflict, disaster, and persecution continues to escalate, we are deeply grateful for the countless individuals, churches, businesses, employers, and organizations who have joined us in this vital mission. Together, we are offering refuge AND creating an even more compassionate and welcoming community as people find a place to belong and rebuild.

743 individuals, including 363 children came to the US through World Relief Spokane. 14 chose to move to other cities shortly after they arrived. These individuals represent 50 different nationalities, including Democratic Republic of Congo, Afghanistan, Ukraine, Sudan, Syria, and Belarus. The nearly 60% increase in arrivals meant more men, women, and children who after living for sometimes years in extreme poverty or amidst the daily risk of violence, war, and persecution, hoped to find a place of peace and dignity. You came alongside World Relief staff and made Spokane and Spokane Valley a truly welcoming home for weary souls who long for new beginnings and new opportunities.

The True Heroes

Our refugee friends are people of tremendous courage, resilience, and determination. The stories they tell captivate us as we consider their hardship and the strength and endurance required to survive. They are true heroes – WE WELCOME THEM WITH OPEN ARMS!

Those who came alongside them in this chapter of their journey are true heroes! You set up apartments and shopped for food, sorted donations, provided gifts for several baby showers for 20 or more mamas each time. You walked alongside people as Good Neighbor Teams and mentors, joined us as an army of volunteers to help with Family Fun Day, took them to appointments, and so much more. You have been teacher, care-giver, driver, mentor, investor, encourager, and friend – THANK YOU!

Moving into 2025

With the winds of change blowing in our country, we are preparing for challenges in 2025. World Relief Spokane is committed to pressing on in partnership with you to support refugees as they go from arriving to surviving to flourishing. Every challenge we overcome, and every innovative solution we create, will be a moment of celebration for all of us. Together, we will continue to meet the needs in the lives of those who need us most. We invite you to join us in 2025 to be part of someone’s story of transformation.

-Christi Armstrong, Executive Director