hias

Hias, commonly styled HIAS, refers to the Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society, a global nonprofit humanitarian organization that supports refugees and asylum seekers. The name is most often associated with the organization’s mission to assist displaced people and to promote refugee protection and integration.

Hias was founded in 1881 in New York City by Jewish immigrants fleeing pogroms in the Russian Empire. It began as a charity and advocacy group focused on helping Jewish refugees resettle, but over time its mission broadened to protect the rights of all refugees and asylum seekers, regardless of background. Today, HIAS emphasizes humane immigration policies, refugee protection, and the well-being of displaced communities worldwide, while maintaining historical ties to Jewish communities and values.

The organization provides a range of programs, including legal aid and representation for asylum and immigration matters, and comprehensive resettlement services such as housing support, financial assistance, language and employment training, and education and youth programs. HIAS also engages in community integration efforts and coordinates advocacy efforts to expand safe pathways for refugee entry and family reunification. In addition to direct services, HIAS conducts research, public education, and policy work aimed at protecting refugees and asylum seekers.

HIAS operates through partnerships with local NGOs, governments, international organizations, and faith communities, and is funded by private donations, foundations, and government grants. While most closely associated with its historical mission to assist Jewish refugees, the organization now serves refugees and displaced people of diverse backgrounds around the world.