New name.
Same mission.
LIRS is now Global Refuge.
Welcoming newcomers since 1939.
See Our Evolution
Olesia and Kira’s Story: Our Whole Life Packed Up
Olesia came to the United States with nothing but a small bag and her six-year-old daughter, Kira, in tow.
Experience the StoryFollow their journeys
Sharing the stories of immigrants and former refugees in their own words.
Every person has a story. We invite you to learn from the resilient people who have shared theirs with us.
Emillie’s Story: Crossing the River
Emillie was only 8 years old when she and her family were forced to flee the Democratic Republic of Congo. They spent 15 years living in Uganda as refugees—but they knew it was not their home.
Yemelianova Family’s Story: Everything Will be Peaceful
When the Yemelianova family's journey to the United States was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, they had no idea they would find themselves fleeing a country at war only two years later.
Helal’s Story: My Crime is Being a Woman
Helal Massomi was forced to flee her country and seek safety in the United States.
Helal’s Story: My Crime is Being a Woman
Helal Massomi was forced to flee her country and seek safety in the United States.
Nassir’s Story: Bringing Afghanistan Home
Nassir Ahmad, Philanthropic Advisor, came to the United States in 2014 through the Special Immigrant Visa program after serving as a combat interpreter for the U.S. military in Afghanistan.
Hussain’s Story: A Life of Duty
Hussain Kazimi came to the United States in 2014 on a Special Immigrant Visa after serving the U.S. mission in Afghanistan as a translator.
Muzhgan’s Story: My First Home
Throughout Muzhgan's life, she was often overlooked and undervalued by her male colleagues. Today, she is a leader at the State Department.
Zarmina’s Story: A Call to Welcome
Zarmina Hamidi was just about to start work on a CBS sitcom when she watched her home country of Afghanistan fall under Taliban control.
Mohammad’s Story: No One in Afghanistan is Safe
When Mohammad* came to the Lutheran Social Services of the National Capital Area (LSSNCA) office in Fairfax, VA, he was still reeling.