A refugee is a person who has been forced to flee their country because of persecution or fear of persecution. Refugees may work immediately upon arrival to the United State and are eligible to file for permanent residency in the United States. MORE Everyone has a role to play in making Rhode Island a healthy and welcoming place for refugees. This includes making sure refugees can access and receive the care and services needed for healthy resettlement.
What you should do
- If you are a refugee, learn more about how to have a healthy resettlement in Rhode Island. MORE
- If you are a healthcare provider, learn more about how to screen and treat refugees. MORE
- If you are a member of the public:
- Get engaged
- Participate in refugee events like the World Refugee Day celebration organized by the Refugee Dream Center and the Welcoming Rhode Island Festival organized by Dorcas International.
- Learn about the experiences of refugees locally and nationally.
- Volunteer with local organizations supporting refugees.
- Advocate for efforts to support refugees and strengthen community bonds.
- Support local businesses run by refugees.
- Get engaged
Who are refugees?
Local Refugees: Stories of a New Life
- Omar Bah Flees Gambia
- Omar Bah’s Refugee Dream Center
- Shukuru Mugwa: A Journey to Citizenship
- Bidur: SeenUnseen
- Youssef Akhtarini of Aleppo Sweets
Refugees and Economic Well-being
Community health and well-being is connected to the health of the entire economy. Research suggests that refugees can have a positive effect on economic well-being. (more), including in Rhode Island. In addition to paying back more in taxes than what they receive in benefits, many refugees open their own businesses and create jobs. In Rhode Island, examples of businesses run by or employing refugees include Aleppo Sweets and Beautiful Day RI.
What we do
The Refugee Health Program works with refugee resettlement agencies, state programs, and health and social service providers to develop coordinated and comprehensive health services for refugees. MORE