Refugees are individuals who have fled their countries of origin and who meet the United Nations criteria of having a “well-founded fear of persecution for reasons of race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion.”

Refugees, having suffered great losses including their homes, livelihoods, possessions, and oftentimes families, need assistance starting over in a new country. Their initial and ongoing needs are many: food, clothing, shelter, employment, English language training, and orientation to a new community and culture. Catholic Charities offers a comprehensive array of services designed to meet the complex needs of our refugee clients.