The Refuge Initiative

The Refuge Initiative is a division of World Orphans that is responding to the deepening refugee/IDP and humanitarian crisis unfolding in Northern Iraq.

The Refuge Initiative: Building Communities of Hope

Building camps of refuge, restoring dignity and hope, and providing pathways back to independent living for those running from persecution. Building Camps of Refuge
On September 9, 2014 The Refuge Initiative opened the very first refugee camp in the Soran, Iraq on the grounds of its community center known as The Refuge. What began as a desire to

help 20 Shabak families has turned into a regional effort to build camps of refuge for the most vulnerable IDP and refugee families. In partnership with the local governments of Soran and Rwandz – and with the involvement of several charities and NGO’s – The Refuge Initiative is providing shelter, food, water and electricity to more than 80 Yezidi and Shabak families (500+ individuals) at three separate locations. Each camp is uniquely built with kitchen, bathroom and living areas specific for the needs of each family unit. Restoring Dignity and Hope
At the heart of our humanitarian efforts is to build communities of hope at each of our camps. We do this by keeping the size of each camp no larger than 50 families, and where possible, from the same family or tribal background. This enables us to preserve existing social and relational structures, promotes autonomy and maintains the dignity of those in our care. In the face of incredible suffering and persecution we believe that our model of refugee care builds the platform for hope to rise up within the lives of every individual. Pathway Back to Independence
The Refuge Initiative is not only building places of refuge, but we are also actively involved in providing those within our care pathways to recovery and independent living. Our community center, The Refuge, is a fully functioning vocational training and education center equipped with classrooms, a conference room, event hall and soccer stadium. We are currently partnering with internationally renowned clinical psychologists and organizations to provide access to leading mental health at all our locations. In addition to providing substantial employment to dozens of IDP’s and refugees through the construction of our camps, many have started small businesses in the local markets or have found other work.

Photos from The Refuge Initiative's post

17/05/2026

Our school has officially started the second semester exams. We wish all our students the very best of luck and success! World Orphans

10/05/2026

We are truly fortunate that despite all the conflict and instability facing the Middle East and our region, God gave us strength, courage, and peace to successfully complete our preschool year. Our students were able to attend, wear their graduation gowns, smile with joy, and graduate as they begin a new journey in school. We are deeply grateful for all the support and prayers we have received. 🧑‍🎓 👩‍🎓 World Orphans

04/05/2026

Despite the ongoing conflicts and concerns in the region, our dental unit continues to offer hope by delivering essential care to those in need.
Keep our staff in your prayers please
World Orphans

03/05/2026

We are so grateful to have our children back at preschool once again. Seeing their happy faces and bright smiles filled our hearts with joy. Our preschoolers had a wonderful time enjoying a picnic on the soccer field, sharing delicious food, warm sunshine, and cheerful music together. World Orphans

15/02/2026

It’s wonderful to witness the children’s growth and development at our preschool. This really reflects the commitment and effort our amazing staff puts in every day!!

10/02/2026

Today, our school and World Orphans staff came together to mourn and pray for our dear teacher, Mr. Hamza, who devoted years to serving the educational mission of our community center. Please keep him and his family in your prayers 🙏🏻

07/02/2026

إنا لله وإنا إليه راجعون
It is with heavy hearts we share the news of Hamza 's passing ( a Teacher of Our school )
He suffered a stroke 5 days ago and left us far too soon.
A dedicated teacher, beloved friend, and father 6 children . His family needs our prayers and support now.
May God forgive him, grant him paradise , and ease his family's hardship. 💔

Please pray for him and his loved ones 🙏.

02/02/2026

Kids enjoying their time playing snowball fights on our soccer field, a scene full of smiles and joy. World Orphans

01/02/2026

Enjoying a shared meal with the World Orphans staff!
World Orphans

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Irbil
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The Refuge Initiative

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