Since 1976, Catholic Charities’ Refugee Resettle program has helped hundreds of refugees settle into our local communities. No matter what the country of origin, refugees face incredible cultural challenges throughout the resettlement process. Many of the minor conveniences that we take for granted can create huge obstacles for the refugee. Assimilation into a fast-paced and technology-based culture can be daunting for an agrarian people.

“Walking With” refugee families during the early stages of resettlement can lessen their anxiety and foster newfound confidence in adapting to a new homeland. Catholic Charities turns to local parishes in establishing resettlement ministries to help ensure that the initial needs of the refugee family are met. These needs include securing housing, furniture and household goods, food and clothing – for the refugees come to our shires empty-handed, carrying with them only a few personal possessions.

Secondary needs that must be met include supplying transportation to doctor appointments, social service agencies and schools for registration, helping establish the refugees in ELS classes (English as a Second Language), offering friendship and helping to secure employment for the adults.