Switchboard Blog

Switchboard’s blog posts offer a wide range of insights on the newcomer experience, including practical tips for navigating the resettlement process, resource lists tailored to community needs, case studies about relevant programs, engaging stories of successful integration, and more.

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Photo credit: AOberstadt/IRC Housing is a key challenge facing refugee service providers and communities around the U.S. There is an opportunity to coordinate with state or local partners on the use of existing federal programs, Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) 1 and 2, to support clients, including refugees and other Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR)-eligible clients. […]

The Workforce Innovation Opportunities Act (WIOA) is landmark legislation designed to strengthen the nation’s workforce system and reduce barriers for jobseekers. It helps clients find sustainable jobs through upskilling to meet the needs of industries around the U.S. One program area funded by WIOA is Integrated Education and Training, or IET. These programs, available across the U.S., support clients in learning English, gaining certifications in a specific field, and practicing resume writing, interview skills, financial literacy, and general job readiness.

The American Rescue Plan, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, provides the largest Child Tax Credit ever. As of July 15, 2021, most families with children are automatically receiving monthly payments of $250 or $300 per child without having to take any action. However, some ORR-eligible populations may be missing out. Below is information about the Child Tax Credit and what refugee service providers can do to ensure their clients are receiving these funds.