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This guide summarizes, as of May 2026, the benefits certain humanitarian immigrants may qualify for through the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR), including cash and medical assistance, employment services, English language instruction, and other federally funded programs. It outlines available supports for families with children, adults without minor children, older adults, and individuals with disabilities, […]
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Determining whether a newcomer is eligible for Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR)-funded services can sometimes be a challenge. This resource collection is a starting point for service providers who are new to ORR eligibility requirements and documentation. It does not replace current ORR policy letters, program guidance, or state refugee office instructions. Mainstream public benefits, […]
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This webinar is geared toward direct service staff whose roles include producing case management documentation of client interactions. Supervisors may also benefit from this training to better support staff in maintaining high-quality documentation.
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As of January 1, 2026, all newly arrived refugees and Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) holders are eligible to be served under the Program of Initial Resettlement (PIR). This new program, operated by the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Servies (HHS), provides case management, housing placement, direct financial […]
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Service providers who want to build healthy working relationships with clients must establish clear boundaries early and maintain them throughout the service period. Appropriate boundaries are crucial to trauma-informed care. They help set realistic expectations for the service relationship and engender safety and accountability for clients and staff alike. Saying “no” or setting limits can […]
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Hosted on April 15th, 2026, the training was delivered by Claire Hopkins, Training Officer, Switchboard Unaccompanied Refugee Minors (URMs)* often face distinct challenges as they strive for greater independence while coping with past trauma, adjusting to a new culture, and managing competing demands in their daily lives. These challenges can make it difficult for youth to maintain motivation or […]
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In refugee resettlement, we often collect a lot of data to report on and learn about our programming. This is often a team effort, especially when it comes to collecting and entering data on case management programming. Quality data is key to a smooth reporting process and supports internal learning, so this guide includes tips […]
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Switchboard’s free online self-paced course, Introduction to Strengths-Based Services, introduces a strengths-based approach to services that recognizes clients as capable, resourceful, and resilient. You will learn how to incorporate these principles into your work to empower clients to achieve their goals as they build a life in the United States. Course Objectives After completing this course, […]
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When working with newcomers, service providers often need to engage in conversations on sensitive and challenging topics. This guide accompanies Switchboard’s webinar and provides context and tips for calm, effective, and trauma-informed conversations with clients. Service providers regularly find themselves struggling to communicate matters out of their control to clients, who can feel disappointed that […]
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As the refugee resettlement sector has experienced a decline in arrivals, and enrollments into Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) programs have reduced, service providers are thinking creatively about outreach. Engaging “overlooked” ORR-eligible populations can help providers meet program goals even when arrival numbers are low. This blog post will help you identify potentially eligible clients […]
