Resources & Support for Refugees, Immigrants, and Newcomers

Your journey matters — and we’re here to help you grow, settle, and thrive with clear guidance and support for every step.

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No matter your journey or how you arrived, you belong here — and ECAC is ready to support you every step of the way.

Who We Support

ECAC provides services for Refugees, SIV holders, Newly Approved Asylees, and Immigrants from all backgrounds.

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Refugees
Individuals resettled through the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program. ECAC provides housing, case management, cultural orientation, and employment services.
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SIV Holders
Individuals who supported U.S. missions abroad. ECAC helps with housing assistance, employment, and access to benefits.
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Newly Approved Asylees
Individuals recently granted asylum. ECAC assists with work authorization, benefits access, employment support, and legal referrals.
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Immigrants & Newcomers
Anyone adapting to life in the U.S. ECAC offers classes, job help, cultural programs, and Welcoming Center support.

Many Refugees, SIV holders, and people who recently received asylum qualify for special programs that provide extra support.

Programs & Services for Refugees, SIV Holders, and Newly Approved Asylees

Eligibility depends on your status and arrival date. Below are the main federal programs ECAC can connect you to.

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RSS – Refugee Support Services
For: Refugees • SIVs • Cubans/Haitians • Victims of Trafficking • New Asylees
Provides job support, English classes, case management, and community integration services.
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ORR Programs
For: Refugees • SIVs • Newly Approved Asylees • VOT
Includes Matching Grant, Preferred Communities, ICM career services, youth support, and health screenings.
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PRM – U.S. State Department (R&P)
For: Newly Arrived Refugees & SIVs
First 90 days of support including housing setup, cultural orientation, school enrollment, and stabilization case management.

If you have any questions, please email awhetham@ecachicago.org.

Services for Immigrants & Newcomers

ECAC provides community-centered support for immigrants from all backgrounds — no refugee or SIV status required. Our services help individuals and families navigate life in Chicago with confidence.

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Walk-In Support & Navigation (IWC)
Help with benefits, food programs, school enrollment, translation, crisis support, and navigating local services.
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Employment & Training Support
Job search assistance, resume support, digital literacy, workforce referrals, and interview preparation.
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Community & Cultural Programs
Cultural celebrations, workshops, family events, and programs promoting Ethiopian heritage and community unity.
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Family Support Services
Youth support, childcare referrals, parenting help, and connections to Chicago’s family services.
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Health Support & Insurance Help
Assistance applying for Medicaid or Marketplace insurance, finding a doctor, and navigating health appointments safely.

If we do not provide a service in-house, ECAC assists with referrals to trusted partner agencies who can help.

Other Resources

Learn more about the government organizations that support refugees, SIV holders, newly approved asylees, and immigrant communities across the country.

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ORR – Office of Refugee Resettlement
Federal agency supporting employment, case management, youth programs, health screenings, and anti-trafficking services.
Visit ORR Website →
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PRM – U.S. State Department
Oversees the 90-day Reception & Placement program for refugees and SIVs: housing, cultural orientation, school enrollment, and stabilization.
Visit PRM Website →
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IDHS – Illinois Department of Human Services
Supports benefits, public health programs, emergency services, and statewide immigrant support through the Illinois Welcoming Center.
Visit IDHS Website →
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DFSS – Chicago Family Support
City-funded youth programs, emergency housing support, senior services, and community wellness initiatives.
Visit DFSS Website →
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Mental Health Resources
National hotlines, trauma-informed providers, affordable counseling, and emotional wellness support.
Visit SAMHSA →
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Anti-Trafficking Programs
ORR-funded safety programs, legal advocacy, and recovery support for victims of human trafficking.
Visit OTIP →