Jesuit Refugee Service USA

Overview

Jesuit Refugee Service USA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving and advocating for the rights of refugees and forcibly displaced persons. It operates as the U.S. office for the international Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS), which is an arm of the Society of Jesus, a global Catholic organization.

Mission

The mission of Jesuit Refugee Service USA aligns with the broader goals of JRS: to accompany, serve, and advocate on behalf of refugees and other displaced individuals. This mission involves providing support to help these individuals heal, learn, and determine their own future.

Activities and Programs

JRS USA focuses on several key areas:

• Detention Chaplaincy Program: Provides pastoral and religious support to non-citizens detained by the Department of Homeland Security. This program ensures that people of all faiths have access to pastoral care within their faith tradition.
• Funding and Oversight: Offers financial and operational support to JRS projects worldwide. This includes monitoring and evaluating programs to ensure they align with JRS's global mission and standards.

Global Impact

While JRS USA primarily supports global efforts through funding and oversight, its connection to the international JRS network enables it to contribute to comprehensive humanitarian work across more than 55 countries. This global work includes emergency assistance, education, healthcare, livelihood support, reconciliation initiatives, and advocacy for refugee rights.

History and Affiliations

The global Jesuit Refugee Service was founded by Fr. Pedro Arrupe in 1980 in response to the plight of Vietnamese boat people. JRS USA functions within this broader framework, guided by the principles of the Society of Jesus and committed to serving those in need.

Priorities

The organization aligns its priorities with the global JRS focus areas, including reconciliation, education, livelihoods, and advocacy. These efforts aim to promote social cohesion, enhance educational opportunities, and foster self-reliance among refugee communities.