Office of Refugee Resettlement Refugee Program Physical and Behavioral Health – Forensic Evaluation Partnership

In 2013, Jewish Family Services of Western New York (JFSWNY) received a grant from the New York State Health Foundation to begin the Forensic Evaluation Partnership and decrease wait times for clients with scheduled asylum court dates.  Through this grant award JFSWNY partnered with the Human Rights Initiative (HRI) at the University of Buffalo to provide the forensic evaluation service. HRI is comprised of a medical director and medical students who work on a voluntary basis, gaining valuable medical experience in addition to gaining education on cultural and community considerations through their work. Together JFSWNY and HRI provide access, transportation, interpretation, and appropriate forensic evaluation locations to those in need.