In challenging times like these, it’s all too easy for people to feel overwhelmed and despairing. The headlines highlight division, conflict and uncertainty. Yet, amid all this, a quiet and remarkable movement of kindness, connection and hope is slowly growing across Australia. It’s a movement where Australians come together and welcome refugees into their community. It’s a movement that needs you more than ever. Please help us by telling your network about the opportunity and get involved yourself if you’re not already. There is seed funding available for new groups that form, as well as promotional tools to make it easy to get the word out.
Through the Community Refugee Integration and Settlement Pilot (CRISP), Australians from all walks of life have an opportunity to become directly and meaningfully involved in building a successful, kind and cohesive multicultural Australia.
This approach offers a way to bridge the divides of religion, language, culture and wealth and for people who would not otherwise meet to get to know eachother just as people. I personally can’t think of a more powerful and accessible way to counteract the current wave of division and despair.
It’s a welcome that benefits all. Refugee newcomers receive a warm welcome and tailored, wrap around support so that they can truly thrive and contribute. Community supporters get the satisfaction of making a real difference and learning more about the experiences of people forced to flee. And our communities become stronger by bringing strangers together, focusing on all that we have in common rather than what divides us.
So, join the community sponsorship movement by getting involved yourself and inviting others to do the same.
| Individuals | Organisations |
| • Encourage others to be involved using this toolkit or simply forward this email • Attend an information session • Form a group of 5 and apply via this form • Prepare to welcome | • Use our promotions toolkit to spread the word via – Social Media • Invite CRSA to present on the CRISP at your next event |
Seed Funding Available
The next 25 groups to submit an Intention to Apply by 30 April — and who are willing to welcome a household by 30 June — will be eligible to receive $2,500 in seed funding. This is made possible by some generous donors – additional donors are always welcome and needed!
You don’t need to be an expert. You just need to be willing to act — alongside others — and help a newcomer family get started in Australia.
Change happens when ordinary people do extraordinary things. We’d love you to join us.
With thanks for your support,
Lisa and the CRSA team