Every year on June 20th we recognize World Refugee Day to honor the strength and courage of people forced to flee their homes. People like the artisans we personally know, admire and work beside here in our studio.
This year feels different.
With the rising number of families around the world displaced from conflict, persecution and natural disaster, and a growing opposition to welcoming them in many countries, we feel the need to do more.
First, we want to say WE STAND IN SOLIDARITY WITH REFUGEES - as individuals, as a business, and as Americans. If you do too, the world needs to hear your voice! Use #refugees in posts, talk about supporting refugees with others, and donate what you can. The need is great and every dollar helps.
We also want to announce a new candle, diffuser and room spray collection. You know every purchase from Prosperity Candle helps provide life-saving medical care and humanitarian relief to refugee families around the world. Our new Solidarity Collection goes a step further.
With every Solidarity purchase, we are doubling our donation to 20% in of support of refugees in the U.S. and abroad. Launching on June 20th and available in discounted bundles, discover our wonderful new scents for Peace, Joy, Kindness and Gratitude.
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5 Ways To Make An Impact On World Refugee Day
If you are searching for opportunities to contribute to this year’s World Refugee Day, here are 5 ways you can make an impact on June 20th.
1. Donate To Organizations On The Frontline
The International Medical Corps is the organization we donate to on a regular basis. They are highly rated, work in 30 countries where the need is greatest, and been providing lifesaving healthcare and emergency relief worldwide since 1984. Every dollar donated equals up to $30 with matching grants and donated supplies.
The International Rescue Committee works with more than 40 countries, including Ukraine, Gaza and Afghanistan, to help restore safety, health, education and economic wellbeing to people in conflict-torn areas.
Prosperity Candle has supported refugees around the world for over a decade and has worked with both of these frontline organizations.
2. Volunteer Your Time
A great way to help refugees integrate into an ever-changing world is to offer as many resources to ease the difficult transition. Giving some of your time can make a big difference.
English lessons, tutoring, transportation, hosting a family– these are all ways to help refugees prosper. Check in with schools, social services and faith organizations in your area to find out what help is needed.
3. Strengthen Community Support
Become an ally for refugees within your community! Help organize food and clothing drives and join others to organize fundraisers or rallies that benefit the refugee community.
Events that celebrate and amplify the voices of refugees raises awareness and gives individuals an incentive to take action.
4. Support Businesses With Ethical Refugee-Made Products
Choosing refugee-made goods helps ensure employment opportunities and job security. All of Prosperity Candle's products are handmade by women artisans resettled in the U.S. after living for years as refugees, and our new Solidarity Collection supports refugee families around the world with a 20% net proceeds donation.
Also check out these 9 Incredible Refugee-Made Products that Give Back to Artisans and the Community
We recommend all of these wonderful products and organizations!
5. Read Refugee And Immigrant Stories
One way to gain insight into what refugees experience is to immerse yourself in their stories. Novels such as The Refugees by Viet Thanh Nguyen, Khaled Hosseini’s The Kite Runner, and We Are Displaced: My Journey and Stories from Refugee Girls Around the World by Malala Yousafzai are a good start.
Celebrating and sharing refugee stories raises awareness, builds empathy, and encourages people to take action.
Welcoming refugees into this country is not only the right thing to do, it also benefits us all collectively. On June 20th, let’s recognize refugees for their incredible perseverance and contributions to our world.
