Thanks to some amazing volunteers, refugees are truly thriving in our communities. Here’s a great article about a refugee family that JFS of Metrowest has helped to resettle in the area:

belmont

Photo by David Merfeld, published on belmont.wickedlocal.com

Belmont residents host Jewish refugees from Iran
By Bram Berkowitz

As mentioned in the article the refugee process is initiated by HIAS, and JFS is the local HIAS affiliate doing the on the ground professional services. It is a wonderful statement of how a volunteer family and the Jewish community are embracing a family seeking freedom.

JFS is providing resettlement services all across Eastern Massachusetts. With incoming families from Iran, Iraq, Ukraine, and many others, JFS is responding to refugees around the globe who need support and are resettling in the greater Boston area. Here is some of the support we provide the family before arrival and after the families have arrived; to help assist with their transitioning into the U.S. culture.

JFS Reception & Placement Activities:

  • Support in finding housing:
    ➢ Supplying all household goods including furniture, kitchenware, etc.
  • Initial Health-Assessment:
    ➢ Setting up an appointment with Refugee Health
  • Help in accessing public benefits:
    ➢ Cash assistance
    ➢ SNAP – Food stamps
    ➢ Health Insurance
  • Cultural orientation, topics such as:
    ➢ Housing and personal safety
    ➢ Public transportation
    ➢ Financial management

Visit our website to learn more about the refugee resettlement program.

Author:
Jedidia Y. Adusei
AmeriCorps, Intern
JFS of Metrowest

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