Community Resources: Immigration
Community Refugee & Immigration Services (CRIS)
CRIS has a mission to help refugees and immigrants reach safety and stability, sustain self-sufficiency, and achieve successful integration into the Central Ohio community.
The CRIS staff is as diverse as the populations we serve, consisting of over 100 people from around the world who speak more than two dozen languages. CRIS has many funding partners who play an integral role in the work we do.
CRIS offers a wide array of programs and services that aim to facilitate sustained self-sufficiency and successful integration for those we serve, including but not limited to English classes, citizenship courses, employment training and placement, health and wellness groups, youth mentorship, family support, advocacy for victims of crime, and legal services. Click here for full information on services offered.
Riverview International Center (RIC)
RIC is a resource Center assisting with basic needs for New Americans. Services include ESL classes, employment services, computer literacy, citizenship assistance, homework and reading help, a monthly legal clinic, and summer programming for elementary and middle school children. Their office welcomes walk-ins for any questions about navigating life in America.
1520 Old Henderson Road, Columbus, OH 43220
(614) 427-3368
riverviewinternationalcenter.org
Rides 4 Refugees
This is a charitable organization helping Central Ohio refugees with vehicle ownership. They accept donations and will repair or sell donated vehicles. Services for refugee clients include matching up to $4,000 towards a vehicle, assistance with inspections and the vehicle-buying process, driver training, insurance support, limited warranty on vehicles, and roadside assistance. Clients must be referred to the organization through a Central Ohio resettlement agency and meet restricted-income guidelines. Call or go online for details.
PO Box 34105, Columbus, Ohio 43234
(614) 706-6123
rides4refugees.us
Ethiopian Tewahedo Social Services (ETSS)
Serving immigrants and refugees in Columbus and Central Ohio
ETSS is a community-based organization that helps new arrivals from over 80 countries establish roots and gain self-sufficiency in Central Ohio through programs and services. Adult services, youth programs, and resettlement assistance are some of the resources available.
Our staff members speak over 50 languages to provide individuals and families with the services they need. ETSS began in the year 2000 as an outreach organization focused on the Ethiopian refugee and immigrant community. Twenty years later we are engaging individuals and families from over 50 countries and cultures in programs ranging from after school and summer academic, cultural and socially competent programs to ESOL, job preparedness and placement, family and community navigator for health and mental wellness.
Haitian Community Network (HaCoNet)
The Haitian Community Network connects the Haitian community with services and resources. They offer mentorship programs, community events, computer literacy classes, free legal consultation, citizenship classes, healthcare assistance, employment assistance, emergency assistance and immigration services.
2020 Brice Road, Reynoldsburg, Ohio 43068
(614) 600-5530
www.haconet.com
Asian American Community Services (AACS)
AACS supports Asian American and Asian immigrant communities in Ohio. They focus on East, Southeast, South Asian and Pacific Islander communities but assist individuals regardless of ethnic or racial background. Healthy Asian Youth (HAY) provides after-school and summer programming for low-income families. They offer free or low-cost classes for adults for ESL, Citizenship, and cultural arts. They also offer a Family Support Program for victims of crime, Senior citizen outreach, and interpreting and translation services. The Asian Health Initiative (AHI) provides free, culturally and linguistically appropriate services and health screenings for those living under 250% of the Federal Poverty Level.
4700 Reed Road, Columbus, Ohio 43220
(614) 220-4023
aacsohio.org
Bhutanese Nepali Community of Columbus (BNCC)
BNCC provides case management services, health and wellness services, education programs (like ESOL, tutoring and summer camps), language and culture programs, sport clubs, and more for Bhutanese people living in Columbus.
1925 East Dublin Granville Road, Columbus, Ohio 43229
(614) 396-8965
bccoh.org
Somali Community Association of Ohio (SCAO)
SCAO is non-profit founded by Somali immigrants serving elders, working adults, teens, and children at no charge, with special support and attention for recent immigrants. Services include ESL classes, translation services, employment assistance, youth after school programs and summer programs, citizenship/legal advocacy, financial assistance, case management, and more. Call their office for personal assistance and current program offerings.
3422 Cleveland Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43224
(614) 262-4068
somaliohio.org
Global Health Education & Development
Health Services
At Global Health Education and Development, we believe that health and mental health are essential for people to thrive in life. We offer comprehensive health promotion programs that address the root causes of diseases and poor health, particularly in under served communities.
Education Services
At the heart of our programs is a commitment to transform lives through education and training. We recognize that education is not just about acquiring knowledge or skills, but about creating opportunities for personal and professional growth. By providing quality education and training, we are empowering individuals and communities to unlock their full potential and achieve their goals. Our programs are designed to be comprehensive, inclusive, and responsive to the changing needs of society. We are proud to be making a positive impact in the lives of those we serve.
U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS)
USCIS oversees lawful immigration to the United States. Their website has information about immigration and citizenship laws and processes, registration forms, and fees. You can also use the website to find office locations near you and to keep track of your case. To speak to an immigration officer, you must schedule an appointment by calling or registering online.
Columbus Office: 395 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
Appointment Contact Center: (800) 375-5283
Request an Appointment Online: my.uscis.gov/en/appointment/v2
www.uscis.gov/about-us/contact-us
Refugee Medical Assistance (RMA)
Refugee Medical Assistance provides coverage for the treatment of emergency medical conditions for refugees who have been in the country for less than 8 months, have a low income, and are not eligible for Medicaid. Applicants must provide proof of income, pregnancy, citizenship and other health insurance (if applicable). This program offers health coverage for a limited period of time to refugees upon their arrival in the United States. Emergency Medicaid programs are also available for Non-U.S. citizens and Non-citizens Victims of Trafficking. Applications can be completed online or through your local Department of Job and Family Services.
Ohio Department of Job and Family Services: (614) 466-6282
jfs.ohio.gov/cash-food-and-refugee-assistance/refugee-services/information-for-refugees/services-for-refugees/refugee-medical-assistance-programs