About Asha's Refuge

Over 16 years, Asha’s Refuge, a Memphis nonprofit, has sought the betterment of this city (Memphis) by being a welcoming community that advocates for and supports displaced refugees and asylee newcomers. We have helped over 7,000 newcomers integrate into American life. Still, the need for our work has become increasingly important as Memphis received nearly quadruple the number of displaced persons in 2024 (750 persons) than in pre-COVID years (200-250 persons); with worldwide unrest, this number will likely continue increasing. Yet this vulnerable population seems forgotten.

Let me (Jamie, founder) introduce you to Asha, a once ten-year-old girl who had escaped the Somalian Civil War to Ethiopia with her two infant nieces and 7-year-old brother. Her journey was marked by hardship, including an accident that left her legs damaged. When I met her in Memphis, TN, she was 20 years old, crawling on the ground because she had no wheelchair. She couldn't reach the countertop in her kitchen or stovetop to cook meals for her family. She couldn't get in and out of the bathtub or get to English classes or the doctor. I began working with Asha and her family, teaching her English and helping her with necessary appointments. Her resilience and determination, despite the challenges, inspired me. She introduced me to many other refugees who had escaped war and terror and had found themselves in my city needing a helping hand. Asha's name means hope or life. Inspired by the love of Jesus and Asha's story, I founded Asha's Refuge.

Today, we have five departments that work tirelessly to serve refugees, asylees, and other US lawfully present people. These departments, community relations, education, international impact, immigration, and family services, are run by a dedicated staff of 8, along with about 15 volunteers and many partnering agencies. But our work is not complete without your support. Your involvement, whether as a donor, volunteer, or advocate, is crucial to our mission. Together, we can continue to be a beacon of hope for those in need.