PROJECTS

HELENA AREA REFUGEE RESETTLEMENT TEAM

Helena, Montana

HARRT (Helena Area Refugee Resettlement Team) began in 2022 in response to the fall of the government in Afghanistan. Our country was suddenly receiving thousands of refugees in crisis from all over Afghanistan. A public meeting was held asking the community if there was capacity and willingness to invite refugees here. It was an overwhelming YES!

We connected with the International Rescue Committee, the official Montana resettlement agency, and became their first co-sponsor partners. Under the guidance of the IRC we welcomed many Afghan families into our community. Helena offered amazing support of time, hard goods, transportation, pro bono dental care, educational support, ESL, clothing and friendships. It was truly remarkable and rewarding to all those involved.

Some of these refugees out-migrated to reunite with families when they found them. Some have remained here in Helena and call it home. Because this program was so successful, we have been invited by the IRC to welcome Syrian Refugees and eventually refugees from the Democratic Republic of Congo.

We find this very exciting to be bringing new culture to our town. With the support of community donations and a grant from the Phyllis and Dennis Washington Foundation we have opened the HARRT CENTER.
It is our intention to create a welcoming space where we share resources and culture with refugees and immigrants in Helena. Our goal is to foster community integration, support the journey to independence and celebrate new cultures.

Thank you for supporting Hands On Global’s humanitarian work. There is so much need at times it feels overwhelming. Our team is small but one of action and with your help we continue to work “hand to hand and heart to heart”.

Thank you,
Valerie Hellermann, Executive Director

Contact Valerie for more information: [email protected]