Refugees

Programs Refugees

Refugee Resettlement

Our Refugee Resettlement Program helps newly arrived refugees from around the world begin a new life here in Erie. We provide case management, employment services, and language and orientation services to help refugees adjust to life in the United States and become economically and emotionally self-sufficient.

Catholic Community Services serves as a local resettlement agency for the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB).

Refugee Support

Our Refugee Support Services programs help eligible refugees and other qualifying populations access resources, overcome barriers, strengthen independence, and successfully integrate into the Erie community.

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Refugee Support Services (RSS)

Refugee Support Services (RSS) provides employment-focused and supportive services to eligible individuals working toward economic and social self-sufficiency. Services may include:

  • Individualized case management and service planning
  • Employment assistance and referrals
  • Job search and application support
  • Benefits and community resource navigation
  • Interpretation and language-access assistance
  • Referrals to healthcare, legal, educational, and social services
  • Transportation assistance related to eligible services
  • Orientation and assistance navigating community resources
  • Follow-up and ongoing support toward self-sufficiency

Preferred Communities – Intensive Case Management (PC-ICM)

Preferred Communities – Intensive Case Management (PC-ICM) provides individualized, intensive case management for eligible refugees and other qualifying populations who face significant barriers to self-sufficiency and require additional support. Services are based on each client's individual needs and may include:

  • Comprehensive assessment and individualized service planning
  • Intensive case management and regular follow-up
  • Coordination of medical, behavioral health, and social services
  • Assistance navigating public benefits and community resources
  • Employment and economic self-sufficiency support
  • Referrals to immigration/legal, healthcare, education, and other specialized services
  • Interpretation and language-access support
  • Coordination with community providers and partner agencies
  • Support addressing transportation, food security, family, and other barriers to self-sufficiency

Our staff work collaboratively with clients and community partners to help individuals and families build stability, increase independence, and successfully navigate available services.