What is the Preferrred Communities Program?
The Preferred Communities (PC) program supports refugee and ORR-eligible populations with challenging needs that require special attention, including those with serious medical conditions, women at risk, and elderly refugees.
The majority of refugees find themselves well on the path to economic independence after enrolling in employment programs. However, the U.S. Refugee Resettlement Program also resettles a number of extremely vulnerable individuals who need additional assistance to successfully integrate. For these individuals, the Preferred Communities program offers intensive case management to overcome barriers as they acclimate to life in the U.S. and learn to manage the difficulties they face on their own.
Participating in the Program
The program provides critical interventions and services for refugees with special needs who have arrived within the past five years. Also, Preferred Communities supports unanticipated arrivals and gaps in services, such as offering initial assessments and referrals, and providing direct financial assistance for emergency needs as eligible.
Through Preferred Communities, ORR helps vulnerable populations such as:
- Those experiencing psychological conditions, including emotional trauma resulting from war and other violence
- Young adults without parents or permanent guardians who have been displaced for extended periods of time
- Older adults without a family support system
- Those with physical disabilities or medical conditions
Services include:
- Long-term case management
- Health and medical interventions
- Mental health interventions
- Social adjustment services
