We invite you to join us for an upcoming Open House to learn more about our refugee resettlement program and learn how you can help. Please complete our interest form to be added to our program and event mailing list.
Sunday, June 11th, 3-4:30pm at Alpert JCC of Long Beach: Register here
Tuesday, June 20th, 4:30-6pm at Merage JCC of OC: Register here
A refugee is someone who has been forced to flee his or her country because of persecution, war or violence. Most likely, they cannot return home or are afraid to do so. Today, there are more than 100 million refugees worldwide including Ukrainians, Afghans, Venezuelans, and Rohingya. More than half are children under the age of 18.
Refugees that live in United Nations camps may be referred to the US State Dept who screens the refugees and determine admissions for resettlement. Depending on the location where the refugee will be resettling, the case may be referred to HIAS, who then refer the case to local resettlement agencies such as JFCS.
HIAS, originally the Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society, is a nonprofit organization providing humanitarian assistance to refugees and asylum seekers. Established in 1881, HIAS originally aided Jewish refugees fleeing Russia and Eastern Europe. Today, the organization resettles refugees and asylum seekers from countries all over the globe.
JFCS had a robust refugee program until 1995. JFCS is in the process of relaunching its program and becoming a HIAS affiliate, helping to ensure the safety and successful resettlement of refugees referred to our region.
Our resettlement program will feature comprehensive case management for 3-6 months, including:
- pre-migration documentation and assistance
- airport reception and emergency hotel placement
- short-term housing placement and long-term housing assistance
- provision of donated furniture and household goods
- in-depth and ongoing cultural orientation
- enrolling clients in medical services
- enrolling clients in ESL classes and vocational support
- enrolling children in schools
- food/groceries assistance
- transportation assistance
- mobile phone assistance
- employment assistance
- parenting support
- managing crises or family upheaval
- mental health support
- referrals for religious or spiritual support (as requested)
- matching clients with volunteers and tutors
- social gatherings and celebrations (virtual during shelter-in-place)
Ready to make a difference in the life of a refugee today? You can make a gift to our Refugee Assistance Fund here.
For more information or general program questions, contact Director of Development, Jennifer Seislove.