U.S. Refugee Protection and Resettlement
Around the world violence, conflict and persecution force families to flee their homes in search of safety. With an estimated 25 million refugees in the world, this crisis demands compassionate and strategic action. Through both direct service and advocacy, CWS stands up for those who simply want a safe place to call home.
The U.S. refugee resettlement program was built by people of faith across the nation who believe in welcoming the stranger. Yet in recent years this life-saving program has been slashed by more than 80%, separating families and breaking promises to countless vulnerable refugee families and host communities. Less than 1% of those in need of resettlement will ever find that protection in a safe third country.
CWS advocates for policies to reunite separated families and help refugee families rebuild their lives in safety. As the number of refugees resettled to the United States dwindles, we work to lift the voices of people of faith, refugee leaders and communities to defend America’s longstanding tradition of protecting the persecuted.
Our U.S. office network
Welcoming refugees across 17 states.
CWS has 23 refugee and immigration offices that provide services to newly arrived refugees and immigrants, helping them to integrate into local communities, find jobs and learn the necessary skills to support their new life in the United States

Latest Updates
CWS MARKS WORLD REFUGEE DAY AND 40 YEARS OF 1980 REFUGEE ACT
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 20, 2020 CONTACT: media@cwsglobal.org CWS MARKS WORLD REFUGEE DAY AND 40 YEARS OF 1980 REFUGEE ACT “While we honor refugees on this day, we must also pledge our support for racial justice and anti-racism in word and deed.” New York, New York — On the occasion of World Refugee Day, a global holiday celebrating and honoring the resilience …
Pandemic Should not Impede Resettlement of Refugees in Danger by UNHCR, IOM
Washington, D.C. — In response to the announcement from the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) that have temporarily suspended travel for refugee resettlement due to the COVID-19 global health crisis, Rev. John L. McCullough, president and CEO of Church World Service, issued the following statement: “The …