World Relief Spokane increases resettlement capacity in response to global displacement crisis
August 30, 2023 – Spokane, WA – With more than 110 million people forced to flee their homes worldwide due to violence, persecution, economic collapse, global warming, famine and natural disasters, World Relief Spokane is increasing the number of refugees and other immigrants they will resettle in Spokane from 500 this year to 700 next year.
This forty percent increase requires an increase in staff, an increase in housing and an increase in community partnerships. To meet the greater demand, World Relief will be opening an office in Spokane Valley in early 2024 and seeking to build more relationships with Valley organizations, churches and landlords. They will maintain a presence in Spokane at City Covenant Church, 512 S Bernard. Case managers, a drop-in center and educational services will be available at both locations.
Additionally, World Relief has partnered with The Imperial Apartments, 120 W 3rd Ave., to be a welcome center for new arrivals. Most new arrivals are housed at The Imperial immediately upon arrival until longer-term housing is located.
“The need is tremendous,” Executive Director Christi Armstrong said, “and we’re thrilled to be able to expand our capacity in response to that need. The Spokane area is such a welcoming place. We look forward to opening our doors just a bit wider to accommodate more people.
“There has always been a great need in Spokane Valley for employees in manufacturing, production, hospitality, food service, and other industries. Expanding our services enables us to accommodate the needs of our clients while providing exceptional workers to prospective employers. The expansion also opens opportunities for clients and their families to experience a smaller city with less traffic, great services, diverse opportunities, affordable housing, and plenty of room to grow.”
New office space at the Redwood Plaza, 11707 E Sprague Ave., should be open by Spring 2024.
The expansion opens up lots of new opportunities for partnership. If you’d like to know more, please visit https://worldrelief.org/spokane/make-an-impact/.
Since it was established in 1992, World Relief Spokane has resettled nearly 12,000 refugees and other immigrants from 51 different countries. Services include intensive case management, job readiness and employment services, educational services including basic computer skills, English conversation and financial literacy, as well as a drop-in Friendship Center with interpreters from a variety of different ethnic communities.