Refugee Resettlement
Reception and Placement Program
Our hearts go out to refugees who are suffering around the world. America has a long and proud history of serving refugees from all backgrounds dating back to World War II.
Through Refugee Resettlement in Minnesota, we are dedicated to helping refugees become independent and sustain their families as quickly as possible.
Many newly-arrived refugees we serve are arriving through a process called family reunification, meaning that refugee arrivals are joining family members who are already here. We also serve many individuals and families that do not have family in Minnesota.
Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota works with refugees for 90 days when they first arrive to help them adapt to their new home and start their news lives.
We help families:
Find Employment
LSS works with many employers to connect refugees to jobs opportunities.
Secure Housing
We help refugees find a place to live, and work with property owners to ensure that the tenant and property owner relationships are operating smoothly.
Enroll in School & English classes
We connect refugees to schools and English Language Learner (ELL) classes.
Connect to Medical Care
Refugees are required to receive a health exam within 30 days of arrival. We also help individual with more challenging medical situations learn how to navigate the U.S. healthcare system.
Orient to Minnesota Culture
LSS offers interpreted Cultural Orientation classes to help refugees learn about life in Minnesota. Volunteers also help provide trainings on using public transportation.
Connect with Community Resources
Refugees receive support filling out forms for health insurance, county benefits, and food assistance. We also provide referrals and connections to partner organizations who help meet additional physicals, social, and emotional needs of families.
Receive Immigration Legal Services
We assist refugees in filing various immigration forms that might include family reunification petitions, visas, travel documents and citizenship applications.
“I came to the United States through the Special Immigrant Visa because I worked with the U.S. army in Afghanistan as an interpreter for five years. LSS helped us a lot. They provided a home and provided all basic necessities for us upon arrival when we came here. Also, they helped us learn how to make appointments at clinics and how to find a job. I appreciate them.” -- Matiullah Fahim, billing coordinator for Sky Chefs
There are many ways that you can help support refugees and make a difference in their lives. Thank you for helping us change lives!