Trekker
The Trekker app aims to provide financial education and budgeting tools to refugees recently admitted and living in the U.S. The app will help refugees manage their finances and make informed spending, saving, and budgeting decisions.
Timeline: January - April 2023
Group Members: Alexis Tsourounakis and Basmah Altimimi.
What is this showcasing? This study showcases my ability to create a high-fidelity prototype by synthesizing data through user research and literary research.
Introduction
The financial needs of refugees change depending on the stage of their displacement, ranging from necessities like cash at the time of arrival to more complex services like savings, payments, and credit during a more stable and protracted phase. A huge barrier to economic independence and self-sufficiency is the absence of access to financial services. In short, without such services, they can’t fully participate in a country’s economy or build a stable life for themselves and their families.
The Problem?
The financial needs of refugees change depending on the stage of their displacement, ranging from necessities like cash at the time of arrival to more complex services like savings, payments, and credit during a more stable and protracted phase. A huge barrier to economic independence and self-sufficiency is the absence of access to financial services. In short, without such services, they can’t fully participate in a country’s economy or build a stable life for themselves and their families.
Who is a refugee?
A person who is unwilling or unable to return to their country of nationality due to fear of persecution due to race, religion, ethnicity, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion.
Research findings
27 million people are displaced worldwide every year
11,454 were admitted into the United States in 2021
There are 10 reception and replacement organizations in the U.S.
They have 90 days to go through the reception and replacement program and are on their own.
They receive $1,275 for food, clothing, rent, and furnishings.
Web Design
What is the difference between a refugee and an asylee?
In the United States, the main difference is the person's location at the time of application. Refugees are nearly always outside the United States when they are considered for resettlement. In contrast, asylum seekers submit their applications while physically present in or at a port of entry to the United States.
