How You Can Help Asylum Seekers

This year, New York City has experienced a greater-than-usual influx of asylum seekers, and QPL is dedicated to providing support to these immigrants as they adjust to life in the United States. .

Here are some ways that you can help our city's newcomers. We will continue to update this page as more opportunities become available.

 

Clothing and Other Donations

New York Cares Coat Drive
Click the link above for an interactive map with citywide locations for coat donations.

NYC Stands with Asylum Seekers
The Mayor's Fund to Advance New York City has a list of drop-off locations in the five boroughs where you can donate new clothing, toiletry, and hygiene items.

 

Volunteering

Team TLC NYC
This grassroots organization is committed to providing basic needs and support to asylum seekers and immigrants. You can sign up to meet and greet migrants at the bus station and airports. There are shifts open to anyone as well as shifts specifically for Spanish speakers.

Bowery Residents' Committee: Bilingual Spanish-Speaking Volunteers
BRC is seeking bilingual Spanish-speaking volunteers that can provide translation services, a kind smile, and casual conversation for asylum seekers. This includes volunteers at the BRC Blue Sky Residence shelter in East Elmhurst.

International Rescue Committee Community Interpreter Program in NYC
Do you speak another language? Join the IRC in New York and New Jersey as a Community Interpreter Volunteer to help interpret for newly arrived refugees and immigrants. They are particularly looking for volunteers who speak Arabic, French, Urdu, Spanish, Pashto, and Dari.

 

Cash Donations

The Mayor's Fund to Advance NYC recommends that those wishing to donate cash should direct their donation to the United Way of New York City through the United Way of New York City Emergency Assistance & Community Needs Fund.