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Advocating for Human Rights: The Role of Voluntary Agency Programs in Refugee and Entrant Assistance

There is an increasing number of displaced people globally who seek protection and a new beginning in safe havens. Refugees and entrants retrieve this much-needed assistance from various sources, one of the primary ones being Voluntary Agencies (Volags). This guide aims to provide comprehensive information on the role of such organizations and how potential beneficiaries can access their services.

A Deeper Understanding of Voluntary Agencies

Volags are non-profit organizations, many of which operate internationally, committed to humanitarian causes. In the context of refugee and entrant assistance, their role extends beyond the immediate needs of refugees. They are involved in various stages of the resettlement process, from conducting overseas cultural orientation to aiding in the process of family reunification.

Types of Assistance Provided By Volags

Here are the primary categories of assistance that Volags extend to refugees and entrants.

Pre-Arrival Services

Volags work with the U.S. Department of State to facilitate Cultural Orientation (CO). CO is crucial because it provides refugees with fundamental knowledge about life and expectations in the U.S.

Post-Arrival Services

Upon arrival, Volags assist refugees in various aspects, including:

Initial Housing: Providing secure and furnished accommodation.
Basic Necessities: Ensuring provision of food, clothing, and other essentials for the first few months.
Social Services: Helping in social security card application, school enrolment for children, language lessons, and employment services.

Eligibility and Requirements

The eligibility and requirements for assistance from Volags can vary based on specific programs and the individual agency's standards. However, the general eligibility criteria include:

Refugees who have been lawfully admitted into the U.S.
Asylees, or individuals who have been granted asylum.
Certain entrants from Cuba and Haiti.

For a thorough understanding of eligibility and requirements, it is recommended to directly reach out to the Volag serving your area.

How to apply for assistance in your area

Refugees, asylees, or entrants in need of assistance can take the following steps to apply:

Identify Local Volags: Research and identify Voluntary Agencies that provide services in your area.
Contact the Agency: Get in touch with the agency, either by calling or visiting their local office. They will guide you on the application process, the documents required, and other procedural aspects.
Fill Out the Application Form: Complete the application form provided by the agency. Ensure to provide accurate and comprehensive details.
Submit the Application: Once completed, submit the application form and other requested documents to the agency.
Follow Up: Stay in contact with the agency to answer any further queries and to stay informed about your application's process.

Finding Suitable Volags: Online Resources

There are several online resources where you can find information about Voluntary Agencies providing refugee and entrant assistance. Here are a few:

Refugee Council USA: This coalition of leading U.S. NGOs focuses on refugee protection. They maintain a directory of members providing resettlement services.
Office of Refugee Resettlement: ORR, part of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, provides a list of Volags that are funded for refugee resettlement.

Rallying for the Cause: Becoming a Volunteer

Aside from seeking help, you can also participate in the very crucial job of assisting refugees, asylees, and entrants. Volags are always in need of volunteers who can help with numerous tasks, such as setting up apartments, tutoring in English, or simply helping newcomers navigate their new community.

Refugee and Entrant Assistance – Voluntary Agency Programs play a pivotal role in setting displaced people on the path towards a secure and stable future. By understanding their function and how to access their services, it's possible to make the journey from displacement to resettlement smoother and less daunting.

Please note that we are not a governmental agency, and this article is intended to provide a guiding resource for understanding and accessing Refugee and Entrant Assistance Voluntary Agency Programs. For detailed, personalized information, please directly contact the relevant agency in your area.