A
unique aspect of the U.S. resettlement program is the collaboration
between the government and private organizations. The government
sets laws and guidelines and provides funding for some of the
services that refugees receive. Resettlement agencies deliver
the required services and may offer additional assistance.
Every
refugee who is accepted into the United States is assigned
a resettlement agency prior to arrival. The resettlement agency
may be a religious-based organization, a private organization,
a state agency, or an ethnic organization. Your resettlement
agency will have a local office in or near the town where you
will live, with staff who will assist you. If you have relatives
living in the area, they may help in your resettlement. Some
agencies have volunteers to assist you when you arrive.
Although
some resettlement agencies are affiliated with religious groups,
you are not obliged to participate in their religious activities,
and resettlement agencies are prohibited from encouraging refugees
to join their religious groups.
Upon
arrival at your final destination, you will be met at the airport
by a relative, a friend, or a representative from your resettlement
agency. Housing will have been arranged for you. This may be
temporary housing with your relatives or in a hotel, or it
may be permanent housing, such as an apartment. (More detailed
information may be found in "Housing")
Resettlement
workers aided by relatives, friends, and volunteers will help
you find your way around your new community. With their help,
you will:
*
find
long-term housing,
*
obtain
household furnishings and clothing,
*
obtain
a Social Security card (Proof that you have applied for
this card is necessary to begin the search for employment.),
*
learn
to use the local public transportation system,
*
begin
to learn about American customs and laws,
*
enroll
your children in school,
*
find
a job,
*
learn
about the U.S. money system,
*
arrange
for a medical examination or follow-up medical care, if
necessary, soon after arrival,
*
find
English language programs or volunteer tutors, and
*
learn
about community services available in your area.
Resettlement
agencies ensure that all your necessary expenses and basic
living costs are covered for the first 30 days in the United
States. Some agencies will pay the expenses; others may give
the money directly to you or your relative, and you will be
expected to pay some or all of your expenses. In addition,
the resettlement agency will provide advice and other services
for at least 90 days after arrival. After that time, services
vary depending on individual needs and your resettlement agency.
You may be referred to other agencies and organizations for
answers to questions or to meet specific needs. The resettlement
agency is not responsible for paying your bills or debts. You
will need to work, because you are responsible for your own
expenses. If you consider moving to another community, remember
that your resettlement agency is not responsible for transferring
you. And the resettlement agency in the area you move to is
not required to assist you. With the decision to move, you
assume the responsibility for your own support. If you have
a question about moving, talk to your resettlement agency staff.
Americans
value self-reliance and will expect you to take the initiative
in building your life in the United States. Success in your
resettlement will depend as much on your attitude and efforts
as on the type of help you receive.
