The Refuge Initiative

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The Refuge Initiative

The Refuge Initiative is a division of World Orphans that is responding to the deepening refugee/IDP and humanitarian crisis unfolding in Northern Iraq.

The Refuge Initiative: Building Communities of Hope

Building camps of refuge, restoring dignity and hope, and providing pathways back to independent living for those running from persecution. Building Camps of Refuge
On September 9, 2014 The Refuge Initiative opened the very first refugee camp in the Soran, Iraq on the grounds of its community center known as The Refuge. What began as a desire to help 20 Shabak families has turned into a regional effort to build camps of refuge for the most vulnerable IDP and refugee families. In partnership with the local governments of Soran and Rwandz – and with the involvement of several charities and NGO’s – The Refuge Initiative is providing shelter, food, water and electricity to more than 80 Yezidi and Shabak families (500+ individuals) at three separate locations. Each camp is uniquely built with kitchen, bathroom and living areas specific for the needs of each family unit. Restoring Dignity and Hope
At the heart of our humanitarian efforts is to build communities of hope at each of our camps. We do this by keeping the size of each camp no larger than 50 families, and where possible, from the same family or tribal background. This enables us to preserve existing social and relational structures, promotes autonomy and maintains the dignity of those in our care. In the face of incredible suffering and persecution we believe that our model of refugee care builds the platform for hope to rise up within the lives of every individual. Pathway Back to Independence
The Refuge Initiative is not only building places of refuge, but we are also actively involved in providing those within our care pathways to recovery and independent living. Our community center, The Refuge, is a fully functioning vocational training and education center equipped with classrooms, a conference room, event hall and soccer stadium. We are currently partnering with internationally renowned clinical psychologists and organizations to provide access to leading mental health at all our locations. In addition to providing substantial employment to dozens of IDP’s and refugees through the construction of our camps, many have started small businesses in the local markets or have found other work.

21/01/2026

Learning in our preschool takes place through play, exploration, and outdoor activities, helping children stay motivated and grow with confidence.
World Orphans

13/01/2026

We delivered a seminar on how to stay safe and healthy during the winter season, with special attention to the recent cold wave that affected the region. The session focused on raising awareness about cold-related health risks and sharing practical tips to help kids protect themselves and maintain their well-being.
World Orphans

08/01/2026

We organized an outdoor activity for our preschoolers to create a joyful and exciting atmosphere and give them a refreshing break from the classroom. The activity allowed the children to move freely, laugh, and enjoy the fresh air for a while. It was a wonderful experience that brought big smiles to their faces and filled the day with happiness and positive energy. World Orphans

06/01/2026

Congratulations to the students who successfully passed the first semester, and best wishes to those who did not!! may the next semester bring better results. World Orphans.

31/12/2025

Happy New Year from World Orphans to everyone around the world, especially our dedicated staff and wonderful supporters. Thank you for the support, love, and encouragement you shared with us throughout the year. We look forward to standing together to support refugees in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. World Orphans

28/12/2025

Brightening smiles, changing lives.
Through our dental outreach, we're bringing smiles to refugees and students in need. Our team is dedicated to easing their pain and improving their oral health and one smile at a time. World Orphans.

24/12/2025

Merry Christmas to all our Christian brothers and sisters celebrating this holy occasion. Wishing you joyful moments with your family and friends.

21/12/2025

Our school has just started the first circle’s examinations. Best wishes to all our dear students for success!!

18/12/2025

Togetherness is the foundation of lasting peace and success.

17/12/2025

Happy Kurdistan flag day!
Kurdish Flag Day was celebrated at our community center. The occasion was marked with a variety of activities, creating a joyful and meaningful atmosphere for everyone involved.

World Orphans

15/12/2025

Today, the first-semester examinations were conducted at Tabin Primary Mixed School. We wish all our dear students every success and continued progress in their exams. World Orphans
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Address

Soran
Irbil
N/A

Telephone

+1 (888) 677-4267

Website

http://www.SponsorARefugee.com/

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