Immigration detention is an isolating and dehumanizing experience that often re-traumatizes displaced people. Many detained immigrants have said that receiving letters can mean the difference between feelings of despair and hope. Global Refuge partners with Pen Pal programs throughout the country, connecting volunteers to new friends in detention. Please fill out our Volunteer Contact Form to indicate your interest in becoming a Pen Pal.

If writing to someone you don’t know feels intimidating, don’t worry—each program provides training on becoming a Pen Pal and will have guidance on how to get started in a way that blesses both our incarcerated neighbors and you!

Global Refuge is also in the process of creating resources to equip you to start your own local Pen Pal program. If you do not live near an existing Pen Pal program, stay tuned for updates Fall 2022!