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Determining whether a newcomer is eligible for Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR)-funded services can sometimes be a challenge. This resource collection is a starting point for service providers who are new to ORR eligibility requirements and documentation. It does not replace current ORR policy letters, program guidance, or state refugee office instructions. Mainstream public benefits, […]
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Affordable housing programs in the United States can be complex, especially for staff who support newcomers navigating these systems for the first time. This blog post provides an overview of key affordable housing programs, terminology, and eligibility requirements. Although every community operates differently, these concepts will help you assess client eligibility, make informed referrals, and […]
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As the refugee resettlement sector has experienced a decline in arrivals, and enrollments into Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) programs have reduced, service providers are thinking creatively about outreach. Engaging “overlooked” ORR-eligible populations can help providers meet program goals even when arrival numbers are low. This blog post will help you identify potentially eligible clients […]
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This blog post equips service providers with ready-to-use language for responding to newcomers’ common questions about U.S. taxes. Topics covered include filing requirements, income reporting, refunds, payment plans, and how immigration status intersects with tax obligations. You can use these responses as a starting point for client conversations and refer newcomers to tax professionals for […]
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Are you a service provider working with refugees and newcomers who are ambivalent about change? This blog describes how you can transition from traditional “advice giving” to a more transformative client-centered approach through Motivational Interviewing, including practical tools you can start using today. Introduction Like all people, refugees and newcomers can be ambivalent about change, […]
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Across the resettlement network, staff and partners are noticing an uptick in community questions about newcomers. Many people want clarity about who is arriving and how local services support them. These questions usually stem from uncertainty or limited information. When people have few opportunities to interact with newcomers or understand how resettlement works, conversations can […]
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As funding streams tighten and resettlement agencies operate with fewer staff, building strong community partnerships is critical. Newcomers’ needs are complex, requiring holistic, coordinated responses that no single organization can handle alone. Yet for many providers, developing effective collaborative networks can feel challenging. Through Switchboard’s nationwide mapping and referral efforts, we have seen firsthand how […]
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U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is expected to make policy changes that will affect many of the refugees we serve. This information is critical for clients to understand, and we encourage you to share it widely so affected individuals can seek legal assistance when needed. For more resources on supporting clients during this time, […]
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Are you working with newcomers and curious about evidence-based practices to support your clients, but you have limited time? Did you know that generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) can help you begin the research needed to help identify evidence-based interventions more efficiently. This blog walks you through how to use generative AI responsibly to support research […]
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Resettlement service providers carry an extraordinary responsibility in supporting refugees and newcomers through trauma, uncertainty, and major life transitions. While the work is demanding in any context, today’s shifting environment adds another layer of complexity as policies and public conversations around immigration continue to evolve. Amid these challenges, providers remain steadfast in their commitment to […]
