Welcoming the Stranger

As conflict and instability deepen in Iran, thousands of people have fled across neighboring borders carrying little more than what they could hold in their hands. Families arrive exhausted after overnight journeys. Children cross into unfamiliar countries without knowing where they will sleep. Many have no documents, no money, and no safe way home. 

Among those fleeing are some of the most vulnerable: Iranian Christians who converted from Islam. 

For years, Christian converts in Iran have faced surveillance, harassment, imprisonment, and threats because of their faith. But as regional tensions escalated, many Christians found themselves increasingly targeted. For some, remaining in Iran was no longer safe. Leaving meant abandoning homes, livelihoods, and family support networks with no certainty about what would come next. 

Today, Shai Fund is helping Iranian refugees find safety, stability, and community during the most fragile moments of displacement. 

Meeting Immediate Needs at the Border 

When refugees arrive, the first needs are urgent and practical: food, clean water, hygiene supplies, warm clothing, and a safe place to rest. 

Through trusted local partners, Shai Fund is distributing emergency relief packages to newly arrived Iranian refugees in neighboring countries. These packages are designed to stabilize individuals and families during their first 24 to 48 hours after crossing the border. 

Support includes: 

• Short-term food assistance and grocery support  
• Hygiene kits with essential toiletries and medicine  
• Jackets, blankets, and baby supplies when needed  
• SIM cards so refugees can contact loved ones and support networks  

For many arriving with nothing, these simple items provide dignity and relief in the middle of crisis. 

Healing from Trauma 

Many Iranian Christian refugees have endured profound loss: separation from family, persecution for their faith, displacement, and the trauma of war. 

To help families begin healing, Shai Fund is supporting trauma counseling retreats and recovery programs for Iranian Christians and their children. These gatherings provide counseling, pastoral care, worship, and small-group support in a secure environment where trust can begin to be rebuilt. 

The retreats especially focus on families with teenagers and young adults, helping young believers process trauma while building friendships and spiritual resilience alongside peers who understand their experiences. 

In addition to counseling retreats, Shai Fund is supporting youth clubs that offer English tutoring, Bible studies, sports activities, and fellowship opportunities for displaced Iranian Christian youth adjusting to life in a new country. 

Building a Path Forward 

Emergency aid is only the beginning. 

Shai Fund is helping refugees navigate resettlement challenges, including access to education for children, legal documentation support, trauma care, and connections to trusted Christian communities. 

For some families, this support will help them to rebuild their lives where they are. For others, it may help prepare for a future return home when conditions become safe again.