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Assistance
A Helping Hand
People who are forced to flee their homes and seek safety in another country, or a different part of their own country, invariably need help. Most refugees and internally displaced people leave their homes with little or nothing, and even those with some resources may soon exhaust them. UNHCR and its partners provide vital assistance, which takes many forms. Initially, we provide live-saving emergency assistance in the form of clean water and sanitation and health care as well as shelter materials and other relief items, such as blankets, sleeping mats, jerry cans, household goods and sometimes food. Other vital assistance that we provide, or help provide, includes refugee registration, assistance and advice on asylum applications, education and counselling. And UNHCR's assistance extends to people who return home - we arrange transport by air, sea and land and give returnees a leg up in the form of assistance packages. The agency is also involved in local integration or reintegration programmes, including income-generation projects, restoration of infrastructure and other assistance.
Public Health
The health of refugees and other displaced people is a priority for UNHCR.
Food and Nutrition
UNHCR strives to improve the nutritional status of all the people it serves.
Water, Sanitation and Hygiene
Provision of clean water and sanitation services to refugees is of special importance.
HIV and Reproductive Health
Treatment for HIV and access to comprehensive reproductive health services.
Public Health Data
Learn how UNHCR collects and uses public health data in refugee settings.
Education
Education is vital in restoring hope and dignity to young people driven from their homes.