Initial Housing and Orientation

After your arrival at the airport, you will be driven to either a hotel, your family’s home, or to your permanent residence, if we were able to arrange this beforehand.

Upon arrival at your destination, an IRC staff member will conduct a housing and safety orientation, provide you with your caseworker’s and their supervisor’s telephone numbers, and help you get settled in.  

We will provide you with culturally appropriate, ready-to-eat food and at least one day’s worth of food supplies and staples. We will also ensure that you have appropriate seasonal clothing and footwear, including diapers and clothing for children. At this time or within 24 hours you will receive a bank card pre-loaded with pocket money.

Within 24-72 hours, your caseworker or another IRC staff member will visit you to provide information about housing, finances, and health including any immediate needs. Staff will also answer any questions you have, discuss upcoming appointments, provide you with a copy of your I-94 (admission record), ask about any immediate needs you have, and they may take you to the grocery store or provide additional food.

The next step is the intake interview. During this meeting, which usually takes place at the IRC office, staff members will explain what will happen during your resettlement period.