Individuals granted refugee status overseas by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security are brought to the U.S. by the Department of State, in partnership with the Office of Refugee Resettlement and refugee resettlement agencies across the U.S.
For the first 30 days after a refugee’s arrival in Massachusetts, resettlement agencies provide support with basic needs, including assistance with housing, furnishings, food and other basic necessities, clothing, and transportation to job interviews and job training.
During the first 90 days after arrival, community orientation services are also provided including assistance in applying for Social Security cards, registering children for school, and using public transportation, facilities and services.
The Mass. Office for Immigrants and Refugees (ORI) has a summary of these basic benefits. ORI also posts a list of community partners, including resettlement agencies as well as nonprofits that provide additional support services to refugees to help them get integrated in their new home.