The International Rescue Committee provides opportunities for refugees, asylees, victims of human trafficking, survivors of torture, and other immigrants to thrive in America.

Each year, thousands of people, forced to flee violence and persecution, are welcomed by the people of the United States into the safety and freedom of America. These individuals have survived against incredible odds. The IRC works with government bodies, civil society actors, and local volunteers to help them translate their past experiences into assets that are valuable to their new communities. In Elizabeth and other offices across the country, the IRC helps them to rebuild their lives.

The IRC in New Jersey offers a variety of programs to meet the needs of newly arrived refugees, individuals granted asylum or humanitarian parole, and the local immigrant population:

Resettlement

• Reception and Placement services for refugees within the first 90 days of arrival include access to safe housing, culturally appropriate food, health screenings, cultural orientation and referrals for English training, employment assistance, and other benefits.
• Intensive case management up to one year post-arrival for refugees with medical and mental health needs.
• Ongoing support services as needed up to five years post-arrival.
• Family reunification through resettlement: Qualifying family members in the U.S. can file an AOR (Affidavit of Relationship) to bring relatives to the United States through the refugee program. 

Economic Empowerment

• Employment services: Vocational counseling, résumé preparation, job readiness training, job search and placement services, and financial assistance for basic needs with the goal of helping refugees find their first job in America and achieve early self-sufficiency. 
• Career development and professional mentorship: Refugees proficient in English and seeking to reenter their chosen career fields in the U.S. are paired with professional mentors and provided ongoing placement, training, and professional certification support.

Education & Learning

• English classes for speakers of other languages (ESOL) are targeted for refugees, but open to all adult immigrants in the community as space is available. 
• Job readiness classes focused on U.S. work culture and preparing refugees for employment in their new community.
• Civics and citizenship classes to support legal permanent residents in the process of becoming U.S. citizens.
• Refugee youth program serving over 100 school-aged youth with assessments of educational background, school enrollment, parent engagement, language interpretation, and coordination with school staff to promote academic success and psychosocial adjustment. 

Immigration

• Accredited by the U.S. Department of Justice Board of Immigration Appeals, IRC staff is fully qualified to provide high-quality assistance at low cost to refugees and other immigrants. 

Community Services	Legal / Advocacy Immigration Services
Areas Served	State-Wide

Last Updated: 04/23/24