Supporting Afghan Refugees

As Afghan refugees arrive in the United States, the need is great – for supplies, resources, and legal services. At the University of Richmond School of Law, we’re currently assessing how best to use our skills and resources to support those impacted. As we learn more and develop plans, we will update this page.

Have questions? Want to suggest an addition to this site? Please contact Professor Tara Casey, Director of the Carrico Center for Pro Bono & Public Service.

Carrico Center Pro Bono Interest Form

For Those Who Want to Help

  • The University of Richmond’s Afghan Action Group will post updates and resources here.
  • The Islamic Center of Virginia is collecting monetary donations for refugees through its website. Click “Donate” and then select “Refugee” under “Category.” 
  • The International Rescue Committee in Richmond is also collecting donations as well as managing a Target Wish List Registry. Items purchased through the registry can be shipped directly to IRC-Richmond. Review the IRC donation guidelines here.
  • Commonwealth Catholic Charities is hosting a drive for essential items needed to welcome families in Richmond, Roanoke and Newport News. Visit this page for more details.
  • Human Rights First (HRF), the International Refugee Assistance Project (IRAP), and other groups working with Afghan arrivals are coordinating with the Department of State to set up a table at the Dulles Expo Center to provide support and answer basic questions to help those who are arriving figure out how to make the early decisions they are being asked to make on the spot. They are in need of volunteer attorneys who are (1) Experienced immigration attorneys able to answer basic questions Afghan arrivals might have on the spot; and (2) Able to take in-person shifts at the Dulles Expo Center in Virginia. Interested attorneys who meet these criteria should sign up here. 
  • The Afghan Diaspora for Equality and Progress is coordinating an effort to connect those in need of legal representation with pro bono assistance.
  • Support Reintegration of Evacuated Permanent Residents - The Office of New Americans within the Virginia Department of Social Services partnered with United Way of the National Capital Area to launch the Afghan Evacuees Response Fund in its efforts to meet the needs of legal permanent residents who are currently not receiving any services they need to reintegrate into their homes in Virginia or other parts of the country. The fund will provide individuals and families immediate and critical basic needs such as food, clothing, lodging, travel. Visit this page for more details.
  • Support Essential Needs for Evacuees Temporarily Housed at Military Bases
    • Quantico Marine Base in Prince William County
      • The Virginia Council of Muslim Organizations is the only Muslim organization authorized to deliver donations to Quantico Marine base. Dar al Noor Islamic Community Center is currently the base site for its member organizations’ donation drop-off, sorting, packaging, and delivery to the base. A donation list can be found here. More information on becoming a foster parent can be found here.
      • Team Rubicon is a national veterans organization committed to helping underserved communities impacted by disasters throughout the world. View their Amazon Wish List here.
    • Fort Pickett National Guard Training Center in Blackstone
      • ICNA Relief Virginia is the state affiliate of the national Muslim organization ICNA Relief USA working on the ground to provide relief and resources to refugees and those impacted by disasters. Afghan relief support coordination is based in Richmond. A donation list can be found here. 
      • Team Rubicon is a national veterans organization committed to helping underserved communities impacted by disasters throughout the world. View their Amazon Wish List here.

For Those in Need of Assistance

Other Resources