Catholic Charities Refugee Resettlement Program

Catholic Charities has provided Refugee Resettlement services in the Portland area since the 1940s. We assist individuals and families that must leave their homes due to a fear of persecution because of their race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, and political opinions. Refugees come from all parts of the world to rebuild their lives here.

We need help to smooth this difficult transition. Refugees are people of uncommon courage and resiliency. Many, however, arrive with no possessions, little if any English, and minimal understanding of American culture.

We are always looking for enthusiastic and dedicated volunteers to help us welcome and support refugees in the following ways:

• help a child learn to read
• homework help
• befriend a family
• set-up apartments for new arrivals
• drive newcomers to appointments
• find & collect donated items
• collect stories
• orient children to American schools
• project development
• event coordination

We provide the training, support, skills and knowledge for you to help newly arrived refugees with practical support, advocacy and friendship. The work is challenging and involves commitment and responsibility, and brings with it great rewards.

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