Sewa International USA provides helping hand to Bhutanese refugees

Population in Bhutan mainly consists of two communities Drukpas and Lhotshampas. In 1985 conflict between these two communities resulted in a mass exodus of Lhotshampas to Nepal. Since then till 1994 more than hundred thousand Lhotshampas took refuge in UN camps in Nepal living in very poor condition.

In 2008 Bhutanese refugees began arriving in the United States, what UN describes as one of the world’s largest resettlement efforts. United States will be resettling 60,000 Bhutanese refugees. These refugees are in dire need of financial & material need. They also require emotional help to make the transition in this new land.

These refugees are poor families who can’t afford to buy essential material such as clothes and toys for children or furniture. Many have no jobs or are students and have no income. Though VOLAGs, resettlement agencies have been providing support including accommodation, food stamps,Medicaid and job search for a period of three to seven months, it is not adequate.

Though many of the refugees are educated and can speak English, they are little exposed to western culture. Many of them have remained unemployed. Since, the government agencies will not be able to help them for long; there is a strong need to make them employed, so that they can support their families and themselves.

Sewa International USA has taken up a nationwide project to help these refugees. Currently Atlanta, Dallas, Houston, Cleveland & Sacramento chapters are working to fulfill the needs of these refugees. Sewa International USA is providing:

• Financial help
• Essential material such as blankets, winter jackets, clothes, furniture etc.
• English and driving lessons
• Job training
• Help in transitioning to new environment

We welcome any Bhutanese refugee who need help to contact us by email provided below. We also urge our donors to donate towards this project.

For more information email to info@sewausa.org.