Thank you, supporters
February 17, 2026 ─ We want to express our deepest gratitude for the extraordinary generosity and solidarity shown by our community since early December. Witnessing so many people step up to advocate, protect, and care for their neighbors has been an inspiring testament to the power of collective kindness and our shared humanity.
The compassion pouring in from strangers, dedicated volunteers, and steadfast supporters is profoundly moving. Your actions—whether through financial contributions, delivering groceries, or simply offering words of encouragement—demonstrate a remarkable sense of responsibility and unwavering commitment to Minnesota’s New American communities.
We are sincerely thankful for every gift of support and every hour of volunteering. Your efforts remind immigrants and refugees that they are not alone, and together, we are building a more welcoming and caring community. Because of your ongoing support, the Institute has been able to expand its reach and provide critical resources and services to those who need them most.
Thank you for your support, generosity, and belief in our shared humanity. Your support has contributed to these new and ongoing actions.
- The Institute has hosted nearly 40 Know Your Rights workshops, reaching 728 people, delivered in ten languages in the last 12 months. Online multilingual Know Your Rights resources have reached over 2,660 households.
- Computers were delivered to students who could not otherwise participate in English classes, job training programs and immigration legal services appointments in-person. We are operating remotely for the safety of our students, clients and staff. Additional digital literacy support was provided for students using online learning platforms for the first time.
- Toiletries, household supplies and groceries were delivered weekly by Institute volunteers. With your help, we’ve reached 1,400 people and this operation will continue for the foreseeable future. Special thanks to our partners at Saint Anthony Park Lutheran Church, our volunteer delivery drivers, and for your contributions in support of this effort.
When Operation PARRIS began, several Institute clients or their family members were detained. Contributions from community members have paid for:
- Legal representation
- Transportation back to Minnesota after clients were released at detention facilities in other states.
- Direct financial support to clients whose income was disrupted or lost due to ICE detention through our Basic Needs Fund.
- Additional social services are available and are being provided to adults and families who have been harmed by this operation.
With the announcement of the drawing down of Operation Metro Surge, the Institute will continue to respond to the situation as it unfolds. We are currently working to identify any clients and students who may still be in detention, while awaiting clarity on the future of Operation PARRIS.
The Institute is also investing in the expansion of legal services team. With generous support from our donors, we are:
- Expanding our legal services capacity by 50 percent to accelerate the availability of legal screening, Green Card and U.S. citizenship appointments.
- We expect this expanded support will help 1100 adults and children adjust their immigration status to a more secure and permanent status.
- Providing legal representation and advocacy on behalf of our clients who have a pathway to permanent residency, or naturalization and who are experiencing pauses, delays, and increased scrutiny of their applications.
Our mission is made possible by your generosity. Since early January, the Institute has received donations from every U.S. state. Your contributions are reaching families who are fearful and uncertain about what their future holds. Thank you for your support in standing with New Americans so they can find safety, stability, and success.
About the International Institute of Minnesota
For over half a century, the International Institute of Minnesota has successfully welcomed more than 26,000 refugees to our state. Founded in 1919, the International Institute of Minnesota offers New Americans quality services that support their journey to stability and success. The Institute’s comprehensive offerings include refugee resettlement, English education, workforce and leadership development, college preparation and immigration and citizenship assistance. The Institute is recognized as Minnesota’s leading charitable organization dedicated to helping New Americans rebuild their lives while pursuing their personal and professional goals.
How to Help
Contributions to the International Institute of Minnesota help us fund and provide services during times of uncertainty. The Institute is grateful for the community’s support in standing with New Americans so they can find safety, stability and success. Our mission will remain possible because of the community’s generosity.