Introduction
With global displacement at record levels, millions of immigrants and refugees seek new beginnings every year. Whether they arrive in New York, California, or elsewhere, their journey doesn’t end at the border. Many face challenges like language barriers, housing insecurity, medical needs, and job access.
At Umma Foundation, we believe helping immigrants is not only a moral responsibility but a reflection of our values as a humanitarian and faith-based organization.
Why Support Immigrants Matters
According to the UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, more than 110 million people are forcibly displaced worldwide — the highest number in recorded history.
- The UN estimates over 110 million people are displaced worldwide.
- Immigrants often arrive with little support, few resources, and no local network.
- Faith-based giving and humanitarian action go hand-in-hand when supporting displaced communities.
“The best of people are those who are most beneficial to others.” — Prophet Muhammad ﷺ
1. Donate to Immigrant-Focused Charities
Trusted national organizations include:
- Refugees.org — Providing direct support to displaced families
- United We Dream — Advocacy for immigrant youth and DACA recipients
- ILRC — Legal resources for immigrant rights
- Immigrant Justice Center — Community legal aid and support
- CHIRLA — Defending immigrant rights through organizing
- ACLU – Immigrant Rights — Civil liberties legal protection
- Ayuda — Legal, language, and social support for immigrants in the U.S.
- Organizations like Umma Foundation and the International Rescue Committee (IRC) provide direct support including housing, food, legal aid, and case work.
- Your donation can support essentials like:
- Hygiene kits
- Job placement programs
- English classes
- Shelter and rent subsidies
- Hygiene kits
2. Volunteer Locally
- Help at food pantries, ESL classes, or legal aid clinics.
- Many cities (like Staten Island, Brooklyn, Paterson) have local outreach centers and mosques welcoming newcomers.
- Offer to help refugees fill out forms or navigate local transportation.
3. Host or Sponsor a Family
- Some nonprofits allow vetted hosts to sponsor or mentor newly arrived immigrant families.
- This can include monthly visits, job referrals, or basic needs assistance.
4. Support Immigrant-Owned Businesses
- Visit restaurants, markets, or service providers run by immigrants — like Yala Restaurant, which donates proceeds to refugee programs.
5. Educate Others & Raise Awareness
- Share stories and facts on social media.
- Speak up against xenophobia and misinformation.
- Invite community members to donate or volunteer with you.
Where Immigrants Need the Most Help
- Access to affordable housing
- Language education and translation
- Job training and certification recognition
- Legal aid for immigration, asylum, and work authorization
- Culturally-sensitive mental health support
Backed by policy leaders like the National Immigration Forum and advocacy groups such as Refugees International, it’s clear these services must be supported at all levels.
How Umma Foundation Supports Immigrants
Umma Foundation is dedicated to supporting immigrants and refugees across the globe and within the United States. Our work spans multiple regions, from urgent relief zones like Gaza, Sudan, Yemen, and Syria to underserved communities in North America.
We provide:
- Emergency aid including food, medicine, and shelter in crisis regions
- Ongoing medical and nutritional support for refugee children
- Community-driven campaigns and education initiatives
- Faith-based charity programs like Zakat and Sadaqah to empower giving
In the U.S., we:
- Host donation drives, food distributions, and seasonal aid campaigns
- Partner with mosques and local organizations to create welcoming spaces
- Distribute hygiene kits and clothing to newly arrived immigrant families
- Raise awareness through content, events, and advocacy
While headquartered in New York, Umma Foundation’s reach extends far beyond, connecting donors to life-changing programs that uplift and empower displaced families around the world.
Mobile Relief for Immigrants: Trucks of Hope by Umma Foundation
In addition to global programs, Umma Foundation brings direct impact to underserved communities in the United States through our Trucks of Hope initiative. Operating throughout New York — including Staten Island and Brooklyn — these mobile outreach trucks serve:
- Hot meals and pantry items to immigrant and refugee families
- Winter clothing, hygiene kits, and baby essentials
- On-site registration for ongoing support
📍 Each truck event becomes a moment of relief and dignity for newcomers who may not yet have access to stable shelter or income.
The program not only reflects our values of compassion and access, but also helps build trust within the immigrant community — one meal and one smile at a time.
👉 Learn more or sponsor a truck at ummafoundation.org
Final Thoughts
Whether you're donating a meal, translating a document, or simply amplifying the voice of a displaced family — you are helping shape a more compassionate world.
👉 Learn more at ummafoundation.org
📩 Want to get involved? Contact us here
