Oregon Offering $3.6 Million in Funding for Afghan Resettlement Services

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) Refugee Program has announced an opportunity for community agencies to apply for a share of $3.6 million in funding. This funding is dedicated to providing essential services and support to eligible individuals who have recently arrived from Afghanistan.

Application and Deadline

Interested organizations are encouraged to complete the application and submit a budget summary. The deadline for applications is set for November 10, 2023. The application process presents an opportunity for community agencies to make a meaningful impact in assisting Afghan refugees in Oregon.

Virtual Information Session

To provide further insights into the funding opportunity and to address any questions or concerns, a virtual information session is scheduled for November 3, 2023. During this session, representatives from the ODHS Refugee Program will offer detailed information on the application process and the types of support required. Attendees will also have the chance to have their queries addressed by the program’s experts. Detailed information about this session is available in the application package.

ODHS Refugee Program’s Role

The Oregon Department of Human Services Refugee Program is providing essential services that go beyond the initial resettlement offered by Resettlement Agencies. They administer crucial support such as refugee cash and refugee medical benefits. Additionally, they collaborate with Community-Based Organizations and Resettlement Agencies to provide culturally responsive services to populations eligible under the federal Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR).

Significant Resettlement

Since August 2021, Oregon has witnessed the resettlement of over 1,400 individuals from Afghanistan. This initiative seeks to bolster the existing support structure and enhance services for this growing community.

Call for Culturally and Linguistically Responsive Organizations

The primary objective of this funding request is to invite applications from culturally and linguistically responsive organizations that offer services to immigrants, refugees, and those eligible for refugee services. The aim is to expand services and support, creating a more inclusive environment for those who have recently arrived from Afghanistan.

Diverse Range of Services

The available funding can be allocated to a variety of critical service areas, including housing assistance, health and wellness services, senior services, youth mentoring services, employment services, food assistance, case management, and legal services. Organizations are encouraged to express their interest in supporting multiple service areas as they see fit.

For further information and access to the application, please visit the ODHS Refugee Program website.

The ODHS Refugee Program and community agencies are working together to ensure that the Afghan refugees in Oregon receive the essential services and support they need to successfully integrate into their new home.