Phones for Resettlement

New Nest Coalition supports refugees and asylum seekers in Washington state as they begin new lives in unfamiliar environments. The early days of resettlement are critical—newcomers must navigate complex systems to find housing, healthcare, language classes, and jobs. Many arrive with no means of digital communication, which makes even basic tasks incredibly difficult. The Phones for Resettlement initiative addresses this need head-on.

With this campaign, New Nest aims to distribute 60 smartphones, each with a prepaid data plan for three months. These phones are not just communication tools—they’re lifelines. A smartphone provides access to GPS for navigating public transport, translation tools for interacting with service providers, and portals for job applications and government programs. Each donated phone represents a tangible boost in independence and integration.

The project also includes multilingual digital literacy workshops hosted at local libraries and community centers. These sessions help participants learn to use email, navigate healthcare apps, and access job-search platforms. Volunteers, including resettled refugees from prior years, act as mentors and interpreters during these workshops, creating a supportive, familiar environment.

While New Nest works closely with federal and state agencies, the technology gap often falls outside what is covered by grants or relocation funds. Private donations fill that critical void and help ensure no family is left behind simply because they cannot connect. Each phone is distributed with a durable case, a charging kit, and instructions in the recipient’s preferred language.

Ultimately, this initiative is about restoring agency. Refugees who are connected are better equipped to build relationships, access resources, and advocate for themselves. In the chaos and trauma of displacement, having a phone—something so many take for granted—can represent a fresh start and a powerful step toward independence.