As winter approaches, the season brings both joy and hidden dangers. From icy roads to rising heating costs, understanding the risks and preparing ahead can help families stay safe and resilient. Understanding Winter Risks As the weather turns colder, families around the country prepare for all the joy and excitement that winter holds. From holiday celebrations to cozy treats, the new season …
Take Action: Stop Collective Punishment of Refugees and Asylum Seekers After Tragic Shooting
December 2, 2025
In the days following the November 26 shooting of two members of the National Guard in Washington, D.C. by an Afghan asylee, the Trump administration immediately pursued a campaign of collective punishment. The administration has started to implement a sweeping immigration crackdown with massive implications for Afghans, refugees, asylum seekers, and immigrants both abroad and here in the U.S. CWS …
“The Road Is Made By Walking”: An Encouraging Re-Encounter
Rick Santos |
During a recent trip to Moldova, Rick Santos, President and CEO of Church World Service, reflected on finding hope through the resilience of refugees and communities served by CWS, including Natalia, a Ukrainian refugee whose journey of giving continues to inspire. Pictured above: Natalia poses with her children, reflecting joy and resilience in Moldova. Discovering Hope in Moldova In today’s …
Politicization of Vital Program for Allies should not be Response to Wanton Violence, Bloodshed
November 28, 2025
Washington, D.C.—Following this week’s violent attack on two members of the National Guard—leading to one death and the critical wounding of another—in our nation’s capitol, Church World Service condemns this reprehensible attack and all violence unequivocally. The perpetrator has since been identified as an Afghan national who served alongside the U.S. presence in Afghanistan, had been evacuated after the fall …
TAKE ACTION: Stand With Refugees as Trump Sets Record Low Resettlement Goal, Targets Those Who Have Already Resettled to the U.S.
November 26, 2025
On November 24, Reuters reported on an internal U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) memo that ordered a “review and re-interview” of all refugees who entered via the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program under the Biden administration. The review, which would impact over 200,000 refugees who resettled in the U.S. between January 20, 2021 and February 20, 2025 — would reportedly …
“Review” of Resettled Refugees is Immoral, Cruel, and Massive Waste of USCIS Resources
Chris Plummer | November 25, 2025
Washington, D.C.—Church World Service is deeply alarmed by reports yesterday on U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services’ (USCIS) plans to “review and re-interview” all refugees welcomed between January 20, 2021 and February 20, 2025. The order also requires the halt of all USCIS processing of green cards for refugees, even though the law states that refugees “shall” be considered for permanent …
16 Days of Activism: Stand Against Gender-based Violence and Support Immigrant Survivors
During the 16 Days of Activism to End Gender‑Based Violence, CWS highlights the growing barriers immigrant survivors face in the United States—from restricted asylum access to loss of vital services—and calls on allies to take action in solidarity to protect their rights and safety. Immigrant Survivors Face Growing Barriers to Safety and Justice November 25 commemorates the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against …
Explainer: Federal Food Assistance Eligibility Changes Impacting Refugees and Immigrants
November 21, 2025
What is SNAP and who qualifies for it? The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – formerly known as the Food Stamp Program – provides cash assistance to eligible low-income households to help them purchase groceries. SNAP is overseen federally by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and is typically administered by state governments (though in ten states, county governments operate …
Leave-behind: Protect Newcomers’ Access to Food in the Wake of SNAP Cuts
View this document as a PDF here. Right now, thousands of refugees and other immigrants seeking safety from persecution are losing access to the federal food assistance benefits that make it possible for them to put food on the table. When Congress passed the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” it cut off refugees and other humanitarian arrivals from the Supplemental …