Helping refugees and immigrants in Cincinnati build community, skills, and self-sufficiency.
Heartfelt Tidbits is Cincinnati based nonprofit, helping immigrants and refugees one tidbit at a time. We understand that adjusting to a new culture takes time, which is why we focus on the “long welcome.” Issues involving immigration are intergenerational with no set timeline. Our programs are designed to make integration easier by offering mentorship, resources, and meaningful connections that aim to help individuals and families thrive.
Integration takes time, support, and community.
That’s why we are passionate about providing long-term support for immigrants and refugees. Too often, individuals and families are left to navigate a new culture on their own with little guidance. At Heartfelt Tidbits, we offer accessible, ongoing support to help our neighbors adjust and prosper.
With the help of over 350 dedicated volunteers and 79 strong partnerships who provide immigrant and refugee support services in Cincinnati, Ohio. Our programs include free English and citizenship classes, art and sewing initiatives, community gardening, and youth support.
Everything we do is grounded in our belief that no one should feel isolated. We are committed to building community, reducing alienation, and providing the guidance and confidence needed for long-term success and self-sufficiency.
We are committed to providing long-term support services for immigrants and refugees in Cincinnati, extending far beyond the initial 90-day resettlement period.
Our History
Southwest Ohio is home to more than 40,000 refugees who have resettled in the United States since the 1980s. After arriving, refugees are supported by local representatives from one of nine official resettlement agencies. These organizations provide essential government-mandated services such as housing and school registration for up to 90 days.
While these services are designed to promote independence, the transition to American life often takes much longer. Many individuals and families continue to face educational, cultural, and economic challenges well beyond the initial resettlement period, sometimes for years.
This gap in long-term support is what inspired the creation of Heartfelt Tidbits.
In 2008, Cincinnati resident Sheryl Rajbhandari recognized the need for a “longer welcome” for refugees arriving in Cincinnati. That same year, more than 150 refugees arrived in the city. Nearly twice that number followed in 2009. After meeting several Bhutanese refugee families in need of extensive support, she was inspired to take action.
In 2013, she left her corporate career to focus on growing the organization, expanding its programs to better serve immigrants and refugees throughout the area.
What began with the Rajbhandari family has grown into a community-wide effort to provide lasting support for immigrants and refugees.
Our Logo
Our logo reflects our commitment to building a community that celebrates and supports diverse cultures. Its vibrant colors represent people from all walks of life coming together in unity.
The two hands form a heart, symbolizing the connection that happens when people open themselves to one another, representing our approach. We lead with compassion, understanding, and support for immigrants and refugees in our community.
Tidbits is at the core of who we are. Each small contribution plays an important role in creating something bigger. In the same way our volunteers give a tidbit of their time, creating lasting impacts.
If you’re interested in volunteering, explore our volunteer opportunities and find your perfect way to get involved.
Programs
Our free programming falls under six categories. Click to learn more about each program.
