Refugee Services

Sometimes refugees leave home in the early morning hours, taking only what they can carry, knowing that because of their politics, religion, race, or ethnic affiliation, they will not be safe in their country. In order to assist them with a smooth transition into new life here in the United States, our multi-lingual, multi-cultural staff offers comprehensive services to them, including case management, supportive services, English language training, and employment services. Our goal is early self-sufficiency of our clients and most of them become self-sufficient within four months.

During our pre-arrival arrangements, we:

• Contact our volunteers if we have them
• Find the refugees a suitable apartment or home
• Collect furnishings, linens, and basic household items
• Prepare adequate food for their arrival

Once they arrive, we:

• Meet the refugees at the airport to welcome them
• Transport the refugees to their new home
• Help them to settle in

Then, we:

• Help enroll children in school
• Get families to medical appointments
• Teach adults English as a Second Language in partnership with Jefferson County Public Schools Adult Education Program
• Provide cultural and community orientation such as use of banks, bus routes etc.
• Begin the process of work orientation, development and placement
• Long term assistance include job upgrades, assistance with adjustment of their immigration status, and assistance preparing individuals to become naturalized US citizen