How to Help Refugees in Dallas, TX: 10 Practical Ways
Dallas is one of the top refugee resettlement cities in the United States. Every year, hundreds of families from around the world arrive in North Texas to start new lives after fleeing war, violence, and persecution.
These families are legally authorized to live and work here — but they arrive with very little. Here are 10 practical ways to help refugees in Dallas.
1. Donate Furniture
This is the single most impactful physical item you can provide. Most refugee families arrive to completely empty apartments. Your gently used furniture becomes the foundation of their first home in America.
Be Deliberate collects sofas, dining sets, bed frames, dressers, and kitchen essentials from across Dallas-Fort Worth. We offer free pickup.
Schedule a furniture donation pickup →
2. Volunteer Your Time
Organizations across Dallas need volunteers to deliver and set up furniture, tutor English, drive families to appointments, help with job applications, and sort donated goods.
At Be Deliberate, shifts are typically 2-4 hours with flexible scheduling. No experience needed.
3. Give Financially
Cash donations fill gaps that physical donations can’t — warehouse rent, truck maintenance, welcome kits, and emergency expenses. Be Deliberate is a 501(c)(3) — all donations are tax-deductible.
4. Donate Household Items Beyond Furniture
Families need more than furniture. Consider donating:
- Kitchen supplies — pots, pans, plates, cups, utensils (complete sets)
- Bedding — sheets, pillows, blankets, comforters
- Cleaning supplies — brooms, mops, detergent, dish soap
- Personal hygiene items — soap, shampoo, toothbrushes
- School supplies — backpacks, notebooks, pencils
5. Become a Mentor or Friendship Partner
Social isolation is one of the biggest challenges for newly arrived refugees. Having an American friend who can answer questions, share meals, and simply be present makes an enormous difference. Reach out to IRC Dallas, Catholic Charities, or Refugee Services of Texas about mentorship programs.
6. Hire Refugees
If you’re a business owner or hiring manager, consider hiring refugees. They are legally authorized to work from day one and are often highly motivated. Resettlement agencies can connect you with job-ready candidates.
7. Support Refugee-Owned Businesses
Many refugees are entrepreneurs. You’ll find refugee-owned restaurants, grocery stores, and shops throughout Dallas — especially in neighborhoods like Vickery Meadows. Shopping there supports families directly.
8. Advocate for Refugee-Friendly Policies
Support funding for resettlement agencies, advocate for affordable housing in Dallas, speak up against misinformation, and write to your representatives about refugee admissions.
9. Organize a Drive at Your Church, School, or Workplace
Rally your community to collect furniture, household items, or funds. Group donations have a huge impact and raise awareness. Be Deliberate welcomes coordinated donation drives.
Contact us about a donation drive →
10. Spread the Word
Many people in Dallas don’t realize that refugee families are their neighbors — or that helping is so simple. Share this page, talk to your friends, and follow organizations like Be Deliberate on social media.
Why It Matters
Refugees don’t choose to leave their homes. They flee because staying means risking their lives. When they arrive in Dallas, they’re starting over from scratch. Your help — whether it’s a donated couch, a few volunteer hours, or a financial gift — is the difference between an empty apartment and a home.
Get Started Today
- Donate Furniture → — Free pickup across Dallas-Fort Worth
- Volunteer → — Flexible shifts, no experience needed
- Give Financially → — Tax-deductible support
- Learn more about what we do →