U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants (USCRI)

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U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants (USCRI)

Supporting the Successful Integration of Burundian Refugees Program

Program Overview

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Each year thousands of refugees arrive in the United States bringing with them a range of experiences and backgrounds. Some refugees face particular challenges upon their arrival and need additional support. The communities receiving them also need to be well prepared to adjust and respond to refugees’ needs and norms. The Supporting the Successful Integration of Burundian Refugees program, funded by the Office of Refugee Resettlement, assists Burundian refugees who are arriving to the United States from refugee camps in western Tanzania. These refugees, also known as the 1972 Burundians, have been displaced for over three decades, during which they had limited access to resources, education, and employment opportunities. The program provides these Burundian refugees with the support they need to overcome the challenges they face in integrating and becoming self-sufficient in their new communities.

USCRI’s Participation

USCRI develops, produces, and distributes culturally and linguistically appropriate materials to help orient Burundian refugees in their transition to living in the United States. USCRI holds community gatherings and conducts educational outreach in resettlement communities to link refugees to mainstream service providers, build stronger relationships with local communities, and increase understanding about Burundian refugees. USCRI also provides on-going technical assistance to refugees, health centers, schools, and other service providers (not limited by the USCRI network) to enhance knowledge, skills, and capacity to provide appropriate services to the Burundian refugees.

Partner Agencies’ Participation

Refugee resettlement agencies provide Burundian refugees with culturally and linguistically accessible orientation materials and case management services. They work with local service providers to ensure Burundians have access to education, medical and social services, and employment opportunities. Partner agencies conduct presentations to inform communities about Burundian history and culture. In addition, refugee resettlement agencies work with USCRI to coordinate community gatherings to bring Burundian refugees and service providers together to share ideas and best practices, interact, and encourage greater support and understanding within recipient communities.

Communities’ Participation

Communities donate hours of volunteer time to assist Burundian refugees in learning English, shopping, cooking, budgeting, and understanding American culture and practices. They donate food, clothing, and household items that make the adjustment to a new home easier for Burundians. Strong community support helps Burundian refugees overcome the stresses of integrating into American society.

Clients’ Participation

Through orientation, trainings, English classes, and community events, Burundian refugees learn new skills that help them adjust to a new culture and community. As Burundians integrate, they share their own culture, overcome obstacles, and learn new practices that help them succeed in their new home.