Programs
Learn more about our comprehensive refugee programs and community services.
Our Programs & Services
From arrival to self-sufficiency, we walk alongside refugees and immigrants every step of the way.
Refugee Resettlement (R&P)
Comprehensive 90-day support including airport pickup, housing, school enrollment, and benefits enrollment.
Learn More →Matching Grant
240-day program focused on achieving employment and financial self-sufficiency without public cash assistance.
Learn More →Preferred Communities (PC)
Specialized support for vulnerable populations including single mothers, seniors, youth, LGBT individuals, and those with medical needs.
Learn More →Social Integration
Cultural orientation, community activities, and networks that help newcomers integrate and thrive in Houston.
Learn More →Youth Mentorship
Empowering refugee youth through mentorship, academic support, leadership development, and career guidance.
Learn More →Driver's Education
Behind-the-wheel training and classroom instruction to help refugees gain independence through mobility.
Learn More →Language Without Boundaries
Professional interpretation in 80+ languages and 240+ telephonic languages, available 24/7.
Learn More →ESL Classes
Volunteer-led English as a Second Language classes in partnership with Baylor College of Medicine.
Learn More →Civic Engagement
Programs that encourage civic participation, voter education, and community leadership among refugee populations.
Learn More →Refugee Resettlement(R&P)
The Reception & Placement (R&P) program provides comprehensive support during the critical first 90 days after a refugee arrives in the United States. Our dedicated team ensures that every family has what they need to begin their new life.
Core Services Include:
- ✓Airport pickup and warm welcome
- ✓Safe, furnished housing ready upon arrival
- ✓School enrollment for children
- ✓Benefits enrollment (Medicaid, SNAP, TANF)
- ✓Cultural orientation sessions
- ✓Social Security card applications
- ✓Medical health screenings
- ✓Employment authorization assistance
Matching Grant Program
The Matching Grant program is a 240-day initiative designed to help refugees achieve economic self-sufficiency through employment — without reliance on public cash assistance programs.
Participants receive intensive job readiness training, resume building, interview preparation, and direct job placement assistance. The program matches private funds with federal dollars, maximizing the impact of every contribution.
Program Highlights:
- ✓Individual employment plans
- ✓Job readiness and skills training
- ✓Resume and interview preparation
- ✓Direct job placement assistance
- ✓Financial literacy education
- ✓Transportation support
Preferred Communities (PC)
Specialized, extended support for our most vulnerable community members.
Medical Support
Health navigation, medical appointment scheduling, prescription assistance, and connection to healthcare providers.
Mental Health
Culturally sensitive mental health services, trauma-informed care, and referrals to licensed counselors.
Single Mothers
Targeted support for single-parent refugee families including childcare resources, parenting classes, and family counseling.
Seniors
Services for elderly refugees including transportation, social activities, health monitoring, and benefits navigation.
Youth
After-school programs, tutoring, college prep, and social integration activities for refugee children and teenagers.
LGBT Support
Safe, affirming services for LGBT refugees including case management, community connections, and advocacy.
ESL Classes
Our English as a Second Language (ESL) program is volunteer-led in partnership with Baylor College of Medicine. Students, medical professionals, and community members volunteer their time to teach English to refugees and immigrants.
Classes are designed for all skill levels, from beginners learning basic vocabulary to advanced learners working on professional communication. ESL skills are crucial for employment, social integration, and everyday independence.
Youth Mentorship
Investing in the next generation of leaders.
Our youth mentorship program pairs refugee and immigrant youth with trained mentors who provide academic support, career guidance, and life skills training. Through one-on-one mentorship, group activities, and leadership workshops, we empower young people to reach their full potential and become active contributors to their communities.
Driver's Education
Mobility means independence.
In a city as expansive as Houston, the ability to drive is essential for employment, healthcare access, and everyday life. Our driver's education program provides behind-the-wheel training and classroom instruction tailored to refugees who may have never driven before. We help participants obtain their Texas driver's license and gain the confidence to navigate Houston's roads safely.
Civic Engagement
Empowering new Americans to participate in civic life.
Our civic engagement programs educate refugees and immigrants about their rights and responsibilities, encourage community participation, and support pathways to citizenship. We provide voter education, know-your-rights workshops, and leadership development opportunities.
Who We Serve
ORR-eligible populations who qualify for our programs and services.
ORR Eligible Populations
- Refugees admitted under Section 207 of the INA
- Asylees granted asylum under Section 208 of the INA
- Cuban and Haitian Entrants
- Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) holders (Iraqi and Afghan)
- Victims of trafficking (certified by HHS)
- Amerasians from Vietnam
- Afghan Humanitarian Parolees (OAW)
- Ukrainian Humanitarian Parolees (Uniting for Ukraine)
Social Integration
Building bridges between cultures and fostering a sense of belonging.
Our social integration programs connect refugees and immigrants with their new communities through cultural exchange events, community service projects, neighborhood engagement, and friendship-building activities. We believe integration is a two-way street — enriching both newcomers and longtime residents alike.