Operation Allies Welcome - Minnesota

February 2022

Arrival updates

Minnesota has welcomed 1091 Afghan evacuees (333 families) since September 2021 53% are children 18 or younger 45% are 19-50 years of age

Current needs

• Baby strollers, new or gently used, can be dropped off at the front desk of the Holiday Inn Express located at: 7770 Johnson Ave., South Bloomington, MN 55435.
• Housing with 3 - 4 bedrooms or efficiency units. Rent ranges needed are 3BR: $1300-1700, 4 BR: $1600-2000 and Efficiencies: $650-900. Contact Seble.Rumicho@state.mn.us with any housing leads.
• Help Alight set up new homes for arriving families: Give financially, check the Amazon Wishlist or donate new and gently used household items and furniture.

Volunteer help needed

Serve as an AmeriCorps member with the Refugee Response Initiative (RRI) to support Afghan refugees. RRI AmeriCorps members get paid the equivalent of $15/hour, earn money to pay off student loans, and have the option of serving full-time or part-time. Volunteers are needed to help new arrivals. Contact Suzi.Kissinger@usc.salvationarmy.org at the Salvation Army. All volunteers must have a background check and complete a short training.

Outstanding refugee awards

The Outstanding Refugee Awards are a way to recognize neighbors, coworkers, employees and friends who, as former refugees, are showing leadership in small and sometimes large ways to improve our communities. Nominate individuals in one of four categories: new beginnings, entrepreneurship, civic engagement and youth leadership. Nominations accepted until midnight, Feb. 28, 2022.

Other needs

• For other needs and ways to help, see the website for the Council on Asian Pacific Minnesotans. 
• If you have questions please contact: Dhs.rpo.outreach@state.mn.us