Housing & Case Management: The Center’s first task is to find safe and adequate housing for each refugee family. Our staff identifies appropriate housing and furnishes the apartments with donations from the community. (see Needs List under “Make a Difference”). A case manager is assigned to every new refugee family or individual. The case manager is the refugee’s main support system during the first 4-6 months and aids the family in obtaining essential documents such as Social Security cards, Medicaid, as well as health screening and other assistance to help families transition to life in the U.S.
Cultural Orientation & Life Skills: The Center offers a course on adjusting to life in the U.S. with the goal of helping the refugees function successfully in their daily life. English as a Second Language (ESL) classes are also offered through the Catholic Charities Center for Educational Opportunity.
Job Development: Our job developers have a database of nearly 200 local employers who are willing to employ refugees. Job developers assess each individuals’ work history and skills and try to match the person to an appropriate job. Staff accompany the refugees to their first appointment and track each individual’s progress at their new job.
Volunteer Program: the center has an active volunteer program which matches community members with newly arrived refugees. Volunteers serve as tutors to adults and children and assist families to navigate any issues that arise during resettlement. If you are interested in volunteering, click here for more information.