The impact of President Trump’s Jan. 27 executive order, which closed the nation’s borders to all refugees for 120 days and citizens from seven predominately Muslim countries for 90 days, has been felt across the country.
Almost instantly, the ban, which detained several people at DFW Airport throughout the weekend, was vigorously contested. Protestors, in a show of solidarity with those detained, began crowding airports around the country.
Dallas was no different. First came the protestors and then the attorneys.
In the aftermath of the executive order, organizations such as the ACLU, which took in $24.1 million in online donations over the weekend, have received an influx of aid.
For those looking to donate time or money to support North Texas’ immigrant and refugee community, consider these eight organizations.
ACLU of Texas
The American Civil Liberties Union of Texas works toward securing immigrant’s rights through challenging the detention of asylum seekers and supporting refugee resettlement within the state. The ACLU of Texas doesn’t receive federal funding and functions from membership dues and monetary gifts.
Volunteer here.
Donate here.
Catholic Charities of Dallas
Established in 1975 due to the increase of immigrants arriving in North Texas, the organization helps with citizenship applications, document renewals and replacements, and immigration law education.
Volunteer here.
Donate here.
#DFWDetained
Comprised of a Pro Bono team of lawyers, this NGO was created over the weekend in the wake of the Jan. 27 executive order that left a group of travelers detained at DFW Airport. The group launched a GoFundMe page to maintain the “War Room” near Terminal D, which houses international arrivals.
Donate here.
Heart House Dallas
This organization serves refugee and underprivileged children in Vickery Meadow, one of Dallas prominent immigrant and refugee communities. From 3:30-6 p.m. on every DISD school day, participants are given a meal, homework assistance, outdoor playtime, and computer literacy activities. There are several ways to get involved, from serving as a Saturday tutor to volunteering at special events.
Volunteer here.
Donate here.
Human Rights Initiative of North Texas
Immigrants and refugees receive free legal representation through the organization’s volunteer professionals. Whether you’re an attorney or would like to serve as a mentor, there are different avenues to help. They also have a Call to Action and Local Impact guides, outlining other ways you can help.
Volunteer here.
Donate here.
International Rescue Committee
IRC works with refugees to help rebuild their lives in North Texas through programs focused on economic empowerment and youth services. They also answer commonly asked questions about refugees. In partnership with IRC, GenR (short for Generation Rescue) is a group of young humanitarians who work to engage their communities through advocacy, education, and fundraising.
Volunteer here.
Learn more about GenR here.
Donate money here.
Donate new or gently used items here.
Refugee Services of Texas
Since 1978, Refugee Services of Texas has helped refugees from more than 30 countries become self-sufficient as quickly as possible. From setting up apartments to job training, the organization works to welcome and resettle families throughout Dallas. The organization operates across the state, but it’s administration office and board of directors are based in Dallas. RST’s federal matching grant program gives $2 for every dollar donated.
Volunteer here.
Donate here.
Vickery Meadows Learning Center
Preston Hollow Presbyterian Church founded this nonprofit organization in 1997 to meet a critical need of English literacy classes in Vickery Meadow. VMLC now serves more than 1,200 adult students and more than 300 children in Vickery Meadow and West Dallas. Through literacy, the organization hopes participants gain a sense of self-confidence. You can volunteer to be a teacher or to work on various projects as they arise.
Volunteer here.
Donate here.
