3/19/2014 OFFICE OF IMMIGRATION & REFUGEE AFFAIRS. Topics for Discussion. The role of the State in Refugee Resettlement. Numbers and Statistics

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1 OFFICE OF IMMIGRATION & REFUGEE AFFAIRS Topics for Discussion The role of the State in Refugee Resettlement Numbers and Statistics Services Southwest Border Cuban Parolees How many refugees will the U.S. resettle in 2014? Each year the president, in consultation with Congress, sets the number of refugees to be accepted for U.S. resettlement. In 2014, that number is 70,000. Does not include Border Crossings 1

2 Refugee Populations in Texas Numbers reflect new arrivals this current year. Refugees who arrived previously continue to reside in these communities, but are not reflected in the numbers below. Houston % Dallas % Fort Worth % Amarillo 578 5% Austin % San Antonio 899 9% Abilene 183 2% TOTAL 10,298 Where Refugees Come From 2

3 Reception & Placement Services Local resettlement agencies provide newly arriving refugees various services including: Picking refugees up at the airport Providing initial housing and food Providing some pocket money Applying for Social Security Card, Food Stamps, Medicaid, and cash assistance Health Services A health assessment is completed within 90 days at designated Refugee Health Clinics. Refugees receive: Physical exam, labs, and assessment for dental, vision, mental health, and other referrals Age appropriate vaccinations Screening for infectious diseases Employment Services Job readiness classes Assistance finding first job in America Assistance to upgrade to a better job when ready, including vocational training and on-the-job training and recertification for professionals. 3

4 Case Management Services Assist refugees with basic needs Identify physical and mental health needs and provide referrals to mainstream services Provide response to a crisis in which health, security, or safety of the refugee is threatened Promote family well-being and assist with other challenges facing newly arrived refugees ESL Classes English as a Second Language & Pre GED Classes Emphasize English skills for finding and keeping a job Emphasize life skills Pre-GED Classes Prepare refugees to join mainstream GED classes Target clients with sufficient English skills to study for the exam who are currently employed but seeking job upgrades and enhanced marketability in the job market Cultural Orientation Refugees receive orientation to life in America including: - U.S. laws and customs - Tenant rights & responsibilities - Safety - Opening a bank account - Buying groceries - Using public transportation - And much more Driver s Education * *Driver s Ed not available everywhere Refugees may receive: - General orientation about driving - Classroom instruction for a learner s permit - Behind-the-wheel instruction in preparation for the driving exam 4

5 School Services Schools and agencies work together to promote the effective education and social integration of refugee children by helping them to successfully integrate into and participate in the U.S. public school system. Civics & Citizenship Refugees are eligible to apply for citizenship 5 years after arrival in the U.S. Civics classes help prepare refugees for the citizenship test which covers history, government, and the English language Refugees receive assistance in navigating the complicated legal process to become a Permanent Resident and U.S. Citizen Cuban Border Parolees in Texas FY 2013 Southwest Border: 880 CHEP: 343 FY 2014 (Oct. Jan.) Southwest Border: 462 CHEP: 97 Family composition Probable Reasons Issues 5

6 Helpful Resources & Contacts U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration U.S. Health & Human Services, Office of Refugee Resettlement United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees Questions? Contact Caitriona Lyons Office of Immigration & Refugee Affairs Texas Health and Human Services Commission Thank you! 6