Stronger Communities, Brighter Futures, Better Everyday

Restoring safety, dignity, and stability for refugees and newcomers

GERA was built by community members who saw families arriving with nowhere to turn. When systems fall short, we step in with dignity, compassion, and real support.

Serving communities across California and New Jersey

Group of students gathered around a table working on a project with laptops and colorful sticky notes
Direct Aid
Community-Based
Trauma-Informed
Family-Centered

Practicial support.  Trusted relationships.  Lasting impact

Our Mission & Vision

Why GERA Exists

When families arrive in the U.S. after displacement or crisis, help is often delayed, fragmented, or out of reach. 

GERA exists to fill that gap.

We provide direct, compassionate assistance to refugees and newcomers — helping families stabilize, access resources, and rebuild with dignity. 

Because starting over should never mean starting alone.

Who We Serve

Refugees. Newcomers. Families Seeking Stability.

Our services are designed for individuals and families who have been displaced, are rebuilding their lives, and need immediate, practical support to regain footing and hope.

Recently Arrived Families

Support for families adjusting to life in a new country and navigating unfamiliar systems.

Refugees & Newcomers

Practical assistance for individuals and families rebuilding after displacement or crisis.

Children, Youth & Parents

Programs and services that strengthen family stability, learning, and community connection.

GERA community event
GERA volunteer with family
GERA community support

Support That Meets People Where They Are

Refugees and newcomers face overwhelming challenges when starting over. GERA provides hands-on assistance designed to stabilize lives and restore independence.

Emergency Assistance in Times of Crisis

When urgent needs arise, we provide immediate support to stabilize families and prevent deeper hardship.

Support Accessing Basic Needs & Essential Services

From housing to healthcare, we help families access the resources they need to rebuild stable lives.

Advocacy & Guidance Through Complex Systems

We navigate bureaucratic barriers alongside families, ensuring they receive the support they're entitled to.

Community-Based Programs for Promote Long-Term Stability

Our culturally-informed programs build skills, confidence, and community connections for lasting success.

We focus on wrap around family-focused real solutions 

Community in Action

Programs, events, and direct support in real time

From youth engagement and family activities to education, wellness, and community connection, GERA creates spaces where families feel supported, seen, and empowered.

GERA community activity event
Man in floral shirt operating robot on white grid floor during workshop demonstration with children observing
Child holding colorful drawing of sailboat on water with rainbow and sun in classroom
Media & Recognition

GERA in the News

Our work has been recognized by local government, global institutions, and media — amplifying the voices of refugee communities we serve.

Government Recognition · 2019

Honored by Passaic County for Community Impact

GERA was formally recognized by Passaic County for its outstanding contributions to the refugee community and helped secure official recognition of June 20 as World Refugee Day.

Passaic County, New Jersey
United Nations · Global Stage

GERA Youth Speak at the United Nations

GERA's youth participants spoke at the United Nations during World Children's Day celebrations, amplifying refugee voices before global leaders as part of GERA's affiliation with the UN Department of Global Communications.

United Nations, New York
UNICEF Partnership

Refugees Welcome Campaign with UNICEF

GERA partnered with UNICEF to plan and implement the Refugees Welcome Campaign, supporting refugee families through community-based programming and public engagement initiatives.

UNICEF Global Initiative
Major Media · 2021

GERA Featured in The New York Times

The New York Times highlighted GERA's work supporting Afghan refugees resettling in New Jersey, showcasing our impact in helping families rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.

Read Full Article
UN

Affiliated Organization

UN Dept. of Global Communications

2019

County Recognition

Passaic County Award for Impact

June 20

World Refugee Day

Officially recognized with GERA's support

Explore Our Impact

See how we're making a difference in refugee and newcomer communities across California and New Jersey.

Watch Our Videos

GERA in Action

See how GERA is making a difference in refugee and newcomer communities through our programs and initiatives.

How You Can Help

Your Support Creates Immediate Impact

Every contribution helps provide critical assistance to people in moments of real need.

Donate to California Programs

Help provide emergency assistance, family support, and community-based services in California.

Support California

Donate to New Jersey Programs

Help expand direct support and stabilization services for newcomer families in New Jersey.

Support New Jersey

Volunteer Your Time or Skills

Use your time, talent, or professional skills to help families rebuild and thrive.

Partner With GERA

Collaborate with us through sponsorship, in-kind support, or community partnerships.

Get in Touch

We'll respond within 24 hours