Refugee and Asylee Services in West Virginia

What refugee and asylee services are available in West Virginia?

West Virginia is home to a number of refugee and asylee services. These include:

1. Refugees and Asylees Assistance Program – This program provides refugees and asylees in West Virginia with financial assistance, medical assistance, and employment-related services. It also offers support with housing, education, transportation, and other basic needs.

2. West Virginia Refugee Resettlement Program – The West Virginia Refugee Resettlement Program helps refugees and asylees to become economically self-sufficient and integrated into the community. Services include English language classes, job placement assistance, case management services, health services, and other cultural integration activities.

3. West Virginia Immigration Legal Services – This organization provides legal assistance to immigrants seeking asylum in West Virginia. Services include representation in immigration court, applications for lawful permanent residence or citizenship, access to social services programs, help with family reunification applications, and more.

4. Refugee Family Support Network (RFSN) – This network provides refugees and asylees in West Virginia with case management, employment and educational support, mental health services, and other resettlement-related services.

5. The International Rescue Committee – This international organization helps refugees and asylees resettle in West Virginia by providing employment training, access to healthcare, education opportunities, help with obtaining documents, legal aid, and other necessary support services.

Is there a local office providing refugee and asylee services in West Virginia?

No, there is not a local office providing refugee and asylee services in West Virginia. The nearest office that provides these services is in Virginia, located at the Northern Virginia Office of Refugee and Immigration Services.

How do I apply for refugee status in West Virginia?

In order to apply for refugee status in West Virginia, you must first contact the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to have your application processed. You will need to provide evidence that you qualify for refugee status, such as showing that you have a well-founded fear of persecution in your country of origin due to race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion. Once your application is approved by the USCIS, you will then be referred to the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP). The USRAP will determine if you meet the criteria for refugee status in West Virginia. If you do qualify, you will be placed into a resettlement program in West Virginia where you will be assigned an agency that will help you with your transition to life in the United States.

Are there specific organizations offering asylee assistance in West Virginia?

Yes, there are organizations offering asylee assistance in West Virginia. These include the International Refugee Assistance Project (IRAP), Catholic Charities West Virginia, West Virginia Immigrant Rights Coalition, the American Civil Liberties Union of West Virginia, and the West Virginia Center for Immigration Law.

What government agencies handle refugee and asylee services in West Virginia?

The West Virginia Refugee Services Program is the primary agency that handles refugee and asylee services in the state. The program is administered by the West Virginia Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and is supported by a network of federal, state, and non-profit organizations. These organizations include the West Virginia State Office of Refugee Resettlement, the U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants, West Virginia Catholic Charities, Lutheran Family Services, World Relief, and others.

Can I get legal assistance for my asylum case in West Virginia?

Yes, you may be able to get legal assistance for your asylum case in West Virginia. There are several organizations that provide free or low-cost legal services to immigrants, such as the West Virginia Immigration Law Project, as well as organizations such as the American Immigration Lawyers Association and the American Bar Association. Additionally, many private immigration attorneys in West Virginia offer pro bono (free) legal services. It is important to research the law firm or attorney carefully before hiring them to ensure they have experience in asylum cases.

What benefits are available for refugees in West Virginia?

Refugees who have recently arrived in West Virginia can receive help through various services and programs. Refugee services in West Virginia include assistance with housing, healthcare, education, employment and language classes. Refugees may also access financial aid, and legal aid is available to help them with immigration-related matters. The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (WVDHHR) offers a range of services tailored to the specific needs of refugees, including access to food stamps, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and Medicaid. In addition, various faith-based charities and other non-profit organizations provide additional aid through donations, volunteer work and grants.

Are there language assistance programs for refugees in West Virginia?

Yes, there are language assistance programs for refugees in West Virginia. The West Virginia Department of Education Office of Migrant Education provides English language learners with instruction and assessment services, family literacy programs, support services, and advocacy for language minority students. Additionally, local organizations such as the Chestnut Mountain Ranch Group Home in Shepherdstown and the Yeager Health Center in Charleston offer language assistance programs to help refugees adjust to American culture and learn English.

Can I access healthcare services as a refugee in West Virginia?

Yes, refugees in West Virginia are eligible for healthcare services through the West Virginia Medicaid Program and the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources. Refugees may also be eligible to receive a variety of health care services through the Refugee Medical Assistance program. Please visit the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources website for more information on how to access these services.

What employment services are available for refugees and asylees in West Virginia?

Employment services for refugees and asylees in West Virginia are available through a variety of organizations, including West Virginia Refugee and Asylee Service Providers (WVRASP). WVRASP provides employment and self-sufficiency services to refugees and asylees in West Virginia. Services include referrals and placement into job opportunities, assistance with resume development and interview preparation, workforce training and education, and case management. There are also several organizations throughout West Virginia that provide employment services to refugees and asylees. The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources provides job search assistance, job retention services, and workforce development resources to refugees and asylees. The West Virginia Job Corps provides career development opportunities for individuals aged 16-24 from refugee and asylee backgrounds. Additionally, Catholic Charities of West Virginia offers employment and job training support to refugees and asylees in the state.

Are there housing assistance programs for refugees in West Virginia?

Yes, several organizations provide housing assistance for refugees in West Virginia. The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) offers the Refugee Resettlement Program. This program is designed to help refugees find safe and affordable housing, as well as provide other supports such as job placement and language classes. Other organizations such as Catholic Charities West Virginia, Refugee and Immigration Services of Catholic Charities, Lutheran Family Services of West Virginia, and the International Rescue Committee also provide housing assistance to refugees in West Virginia.

How can I sponsor a refugee family in West Virginia?

If you are interested in sponsoring a refugee family in West Virginia, you can contact the International Rescue Committee (IRC), a non-profit organization dedicated to helping refugees and displaced people. IRC staff will provide information about the refugee resettlement process and connect you with possible sponsorships. You can reach the IRC’s West Virginia office at 844-546-0225 or email [email protected].

What educational resources are available for refugee children in West Virginia?

1. West Virginia Department of Education Refugee Services: The WVDE Refugee Services program provides support to school districts, social service agencies, and other organizations that serve refugee students and their families. The program provides educational resources and supports, such as English as a Second Language (ESL) instruction, culturally competent counseling services, career services, and school-based mental health services.

2. Refugee and Immigrant Support Services of Appalachia: RISSA provides free educational and cultural programming for refugee and immigrant youth in West Virginia. The organization offers after-school programs, summer camps, and workshops designed to help students acclimate to their new environment.

3. West Virginia International Education Network: WVIEN works with local school districts and community organizations to support the educational needs of immigrant and refugee children in West Virginia. The organization also provides professional development training for teachers working with new immigrant students.

4. School-Age Refugee Education Program: The SARE program is a public-private partnership between the West Virginia Department of Education and local community agencies that helps refugee students transition into the school system. The program offers language support, academic services, mental health supports, and other resources to refugee children and their families.

Are there community integration programs for asylees in West Virginia?

Yes, there are several community integration programs for asylees in West Virginia. These programs are available through a number of organizations, including the West Virginia Coalition for Refugee and Immigrant Services (WVCIRS), Lutheran Family Services of West Virginia, and the West Virginia State Refugee Coordinator. These organizations provide a range of services, including language classes, job skills training, financial literacy courses, legal services, health care services, and cultural orientation classes. Additionally, many of these organizations also provide additional support services such as housing assistance, food pantries, and clothing donations.

How long does the asylum application process take in West Virginia?

The asylum application process in West Virginia can take anywhere from six months to two years, depending on the individual case.

Is there a helpline for questions about refugee and asylee services in West Virginia?

Yes, there is a helpline for questions about refugee and asylee services in West Virginia. The number is (304) 342-7800. The helpline is available Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. EST.

Can I apply for public assistance as a refugee in West Virginia?

Yes, refugees in West Virginia are eligible for public assistance programs through the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR). The DHHR provides public assistance programs such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Medicaid, and other state-funded programs. Refugees may also be eligible to receive federal assistance through the Refugee Cash Assistance Program (RCA) and/or the Refugee Medical Assistance Program (RMA). For more information, contact your local DHHR office or visit www.dhhr.wv.gov.

What cultural orientation programs exist for refugees in West Virginia?

1. Catholic Charities West Virginia: Catholic Charities West Virginia provides a Cultural Orientation program that helps newly arrived refugees learn about and adjust to life in the United States. This program includes information about American culture, English language classes, and job training.

2. Lutheran Social Services of West Virginia: Lutheran Social Services of West Virginia offers a Cultural Orientation Program that focuses on developing skills to help refugees become successful members of the community. This program includes information about American culture and the English language, job training, and assistance with obtaining legal documents.

3. The International Institute of West Virginia: The International Institute of West Virginia offers a Cultural Orientation Program designed to help newly arrived refugees adjust to life in the United States. The program includes cultural and language classes, as well as information about jobs and other services available in the area.

Can refugees work immediately upon arrival in West Virginia?

Yes, refugees can work immediately upon arrival in West Virginia. A refugee is eligible to work in the U.S. after receiving refugee status and a valid Social Security card. After a refugee has arrived in West Virginia, they are free to seek employment and begin working as soon as they have secured the necessary documentation.

Are there social support programs for asylees in West Virginia?

Yes, there are social support programs for asylees in West Virginia. The West Virginia Refugee Resettlement Program works with local organizations to provide social services and supports to asylees in the state. These services range from providing emergency assistance and housing to medical care and job placement assistance. The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources provides health care, nutrition assistance, and other services to eligible asylees.