Department of Human Services: Refugee Resettlement Program
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Refugee Resettlement Program

The Refugee Resettlement Program is implemented under the authority of Title IV, Chapter 2 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, as amended. In November 1986, the Refugee Assistance Extension Act of 1986 was signed into law. The District of Columbia Refugee Resettlement Program (DCORR) provides social services, cash, and medical assistance to eligible refugees and their families through sub-grant arrangements with community-based non-profit agencies. Programs concentrate on employment, job placement, English language training, and support services. Call (202) 541-3949.

Intake and Referrals Service
The initial service provider refers the refugee to the DC Office of Refugee Resettlement (DCORR) along with a completed DCORR intake form, a I-94 or any INS documentation confirming refugee or asylum status.

Employment Services
Job development and placement services with developed resources help refugees find jobs. Clients develop individual employability plans and seek (IEP) placement in full-time positions at companies that offer benefits. (Part time work often develops into full time.) Services include 30, 60 and 90-day follow-ups as well as employment upgrades and professional positions where applicable.

English as a Second Language
The goal is to develop cultural knowledge as well as the listening, speaking and writing skills essential for securing and maintaining employment in the United States. Refugees attend evening or weekend classes. Group and individual tutoring is available as well as follow-up on missed sessions. Class assignment in either the beginner or intermediate sessions is based on the results of the Basic English Skills Test (BEST).

Citizenship
Provides outreach and public information about citizenship requirements, applications, civic education, ESL, counseling and pro-bono legal resources. Follow-up and tracking of submitted applications go to the Immigration Naturalization Service (INS).

Refuge Resettlement Providers
 Catholic Charities Services Refugee Center      
1438 Rhode Island Avenue, NE,
Washington, DC  20018
(202) 526-5794 voice
Fax: (202) 526-0419
Contact Person: Seme Ayane     
Lutheran Social Services
Unaccompanied Minors Program
4406 Georgia Avenue, NW,
Washington, DC  20036
(202) 723-3000 ext.281 voice
Fax: (202) 723-3303
           Contact Person:  Paul W. Vanhoozer      


Refugee Resettlement Links for Additional Information

  • The National Immigration Forum
  • New York Association for New Americans, Inc.
  • Asylumlaw.org
  • Facts About Immigration
  • Ten (10) Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
  • US Immigration Control and Financial Responsibility Act of 1996
  • Immigration Reform Act of 2007
  • US Department of State Visas Services

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