Reach and Restore

1. Appointment and referral required

2. Free clothing; limited other resources (hygiene items, books, school supplies, etc.)

3. Can go once every three months 

Additional Information: Reach and Restore Website

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Joseph’s Coat

1. Free clothing; limited other resources (housewares, toys, etc.)

2. Provide photo ID/proof of residency; only permitted to enter once without proper ID

3. No appointment required, first come first served basis 

4. Provides diapers and hygiene resources

Additional Information: Joseph’s Coat Website

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dress for Success

1. Resource for WOMEN only 

2. Requires a referral, scheduled job interview, and appointment

3. Personal stylist dresses women with a selection of business attire 

Additional Information: Dress for Success Website

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Goodwill 

1. Discounted clothing; large selection of various other resources 

2. No item limits

3. No ID required

Additional Information: Goodwill Website

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Diaper Banks

There are a few locations around the Twin Cities that provide free diapers

1. Mount Olive Church- Diaper Bank

2. Diaper Bank List - Diaper Bank MN 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Du Nord Foundation Community Market

1. Free online food pantry 

2. Order food online ahead of time, pick up in person

Additional Information: Du Nord Market 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

St. Stephanus Food Shelf (FROGTOWN)

1. Farmer’s Market Produce Distribution

2. 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month, 5-7pm

Additional Information: Serving Frogtown

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Feeding the Dream Food Shelf (FROGTOWN)

1. By Appointment, can call or schedule via website

2. St. Stephanus Lutheran Church, 739 Lafond Ave, Saint Paul, United States

Additional Information: See St. Stephanus website

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Godtown Food Distribution (FROGTOWN)

1. Grocery distribution

2. Every Thursday from 11:00-12:30

3. Limited other items (diapers, etc.)

Additional Information: Godtown MN

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

La Vina (EASTSIDE)

1. Food pantry

2. Every Saturday from 9:00-11:30 pm 

3. Located at FCC

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Help at Your Door

1. Food drop off for the elderly and those who are unable to shop for themselves

2. When groceries are delivered, they will also help put them away

3. Price based on household size and income

4. EBT and SNAP are accepted

Additional Information: Help at Your Door Website

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ethnic Grocery Stores

1. Saint Paul has a variety of grocery options with foods from around the world

2. Some located near Jonathan House include: 

• Ashama Grocery and Meat

• Mi Linda Tierra

• Dragon Star Oriental Foods

• Udo's African Food Store

• Sun Foods

• Golden Harvest Foods

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sliding Fee Dental Clinics

1. Unfortunately, there are no free dental clinics in Minneapolis or St. Paul

2. There are a variety of income based clinics 

3. You will need to call or go in person and apply for the sliding fee to receive dental care 

Additional Information: Sliding Fee Clinics

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

General Wellness

1. Parks are good places for walking and running. Check out local parks or lakes for exercise trails.

2. Gyms have more options for working out, such as treadmills, weights, and bikes. 

3. The YMCA is also a good option; many of them have pools for swimming. 

4. Eat a well-rounded diet; fruits, vegetables, and proteins (meats or dairy) are essential. 

Additional Information: St. Paul Parks and Recreation Website

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

YMCA

1. Each YMCA has a number of wellness services, classes, and opportunities to take advantage of, including a fitness center and pool.

2. While memberships start at $71 for an adult, the YMCA does offer financial assistance. For more information on financial assistance, click here. 

3. Eastside Location: 875 Arcade Street, Saint Paul, MN 55106

4. Midway Location: 1761 University Avenue West, Saint Paul, MN 55104. Phone: 651-646-4557. 

Additional Information: YMCA of the North 

Tuberculosis Testing

Clinics who provide free testing and referral to the Saint Paul TB Clinic: 

1. Eastside Family Clinic: 651-772-9799 - (Frogtown)

2. Open City Health Center: 651-290-9200 - (Eastside)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Other Affordable Gyms

1. Planet Fitness in Roseville: $10/month. Roseville Location 

2. St. Paul Fitness Centers: $30/year. Fitness Centers

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Tips for Managing a Typical American-Style House

1. Pamphlets available in: 

   • Spanish

   • French

   • Amharic 

   • Swahili 

   • English 

Additional Information: Welcome to your New Home Pamphlet

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Change Drivers 

1. Free or low cost driving instruction geared towards new immigrants

2. Assistance finding and purchasing a car 

3. Offered in several languages 

Additional Information: The Change Drivers or Ramsey County

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Metro Transit / Metro Transit Orientations

1. Provide in-person orientations on how to use the bus which can be scheduled over the phone

2. Detailed instructions available here on how to ride and pay, with video tutorials.

3. You can check your card balance and add more money here.

4. If you are lost, call 612-373-3333. They will connect you to an interpreter and give you directions and information about the bus schedule. Know what stop you are at. 

Additional Information: Metro Transit: Home

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Transit Assistance Program (TAP)

1. Discounted public transportation program

2. Always ride Metro Transit for $1

3. Must show photo ID and document that proves eligibility for program

4. Apply online or in person

Additional Information: TAP

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Metro Mobility

1. Bus service available to people with disabilities or other health conditions limiting their use of regular fixed-route buses

2. Bus can be ordered right to your door as a:

   • One time order

   • Standing order

3. Application (Certification Questionnaire and Professional Verification) must be filled out by the individual or a social worker or someone who knows them well AND a doctor or medical professional who has been treating you

Additional Information: Metro Mobility

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Google Maps

1. Google Maps can help you with bus routes. Type in your final destination, set it to bus mode, and click start. This will give you your route, any updates, and when to switch buses

2. It can be used offline as well

3. Desktop version of Google Maps: https://www.google.com/maps 

4. Available for free download on the App Store (Apple) and Play Store (Android).

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Wheels for Women

1. Provides a free car to women who are: 

   1. Single moms

   2. Residents of the Twin Cities

   3. Working full-time for at least 6 months  

Additional Information: Wheels for Women Application

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

PCs for People

1. Provide discounted or free laptops 

2. You need to fill out an application including a photo ID and eligibility document 

3. They also do computer repairs, skills classes, and discounted internet 

Additional Information: PCs for People

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Lifeline Program/Telephone Assistance Plan

1. Provide a free government phone plan for eligible individuals 

2. You must have a SSN to apply 

Additional Information: MN TAP

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mosques and Islamic Cultural Centers

1. There are many mosques in the Twin Cities that are open for prayer and community activities. A few nearby Jonathan House are listed here:

   • MN Dawah Institute (Frogtown)

   • Darul Uloom Islamic Center (Eastside)

   • Assalam Mosque (Eastside)

Additional Information: MN Dawah | Assalam Mosque

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Jonathan House Church Partners

1. Each Jonathan House is located within walking distance of a partner church. If you would like to check one out, they are listed below: 

1. • St. Stephanus Lutheran Church (Frogtown)

   • First Covenant Church of St. Paul (Eastside)

   • City Church (Windom)

Additional Information: St. Stephanus | FCC | City Church 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

International Churches in the Twin Cities 

1. There are many international and cultural churches in the Twin Cities. Some popular ones amongst Jonathan House residents are: 

• La Iglesia St. Paul (Spanish) 

• International Christian Fellowship (English and Swahili)

• Bethel Christian Fellowship (English) 

Additional Information: La Iglesia | ICF | BCF

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Local Library

Libraries may offer any of the following resources: 

1. Access to free books and other media both print and digital 

2. Activities for children and/or tutoring for students  

3. Information about resources available in your community and where they can be accessed 

4. Online English courses 

5. Job assistance 

6. Free computer, internet, and printer usage

7. Meeting rooms 

Additional Information: St. Paul Public Libraries

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Local Parks, Lakes, and Community Centers

1. Minnesota is famous for its lakes, many of which are surrounded by parks with walking or biking trails, sports courts, playgrounds, and other open space to enjoy. St. Paul parks are open to the public.

Additional Information:  St. Paul Parks and Recreation

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Museums and Historical Sites

St. Paul has many institutions that share about the cultural and history of Minnesota including museums and historical sites. You can find museums for:

1. Science

2. Art

3. History

4. Children

5. Trains

6. Plants and Flowers

7. Sports

Additional Information: St. Paul Museums and History

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Advocates for Human Rights

1. The Advocates for Human Rights offers pro bono legal representation for asylum seekers and other immigrants 

2. Information for obtaining a pro bono attorney is located here.

Additional Information: The Advocates for Human Rights Website

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Immigrant Law Center of MN

1. Low or no cost legal services to low income immigrants and their families 

Additional Information: Immigrant Law Center

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Asylum Law Project

1. University of MN law students provide legal services to asylum seekers looking for representation

2. Main focus is bond hearings and detainees

Additional Information: Asylum Law Project

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Volunteer Lawyers Network

1. Walk-in legal clinics 

2. Connection to low cost or free legal services 

Additional Information: VLN MN

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

UMN Law School- Immigrant and Legal Rights Clinic 

1. Provide immigrant and legal rights clinic 

3. See Asylum Law Project

Additional Information: UMN Legal Clinic

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mid-MN Legal Aid

1. Legal services to low income, elderly adults with disabilities 

2. Provide some immigration legal services 

Additional Information: Mid-MN Legal Aid

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

MN Interfaith Coalition on Migration 

1. Provides a list of recommended attorneys for immigration cases

Additional Information: MN ICOM

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Self-help Resources

1. Several local legal practices provide self-help guides and resources to help you understand the legal processes, including: 

   • The Advocates for Human Rights: Self-Help Resources

   • Asylum Seeker Advocacy Project: Self-Help Resources

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Diversity Social Work Advancement Program

1. Low or no cost therapy to new immigrants, refugees, LGBT individuals, and more

2. Work with individuals and families 

Additional Information: The Family Partnership 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Center for Victims of Torture 

1. CVT offers healing care through medical treatment, psychiatric services, therapy, and other social services to survivors of torture

2. This brochure contains information on how to get started with CVT

3. You can self-refer and their referral phone number is: 612-436-4855 

Additional Information: The Center for Victims of Torture 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

CLUES

CLUES provides all around case management services including: 

1. Financial planning and budgeting 

2. Assistance looking for living accommodations

3. Connection to health care and legal services \

4. Assistance connecting to financial resources

Additional Information: CLUES

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Other Case Management Options

1. Other organizations in the Twin Cities provide case management that may or may not be specialized in working with immigrants including: 

   • Avivo: Case Management

   • Salvation Army: Case Management 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Trauma Healing

1. MN Trauma Project

   1. Offers various resources for trauma healing

      1. Therapists

      2. Sports

      3. Educational Events

Additional Information: MN Trauma Project

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Pilgrim Center for Reconciliation 

1. Healing and reconciliation retreats and groups 

Additional Information: Pilgrim Center

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

For more information see "Social Work / Case Management" 

Minnesota Care

1. Minnesota Care is a health care program for individuals with low incomes

2. You can apply online or on paper. The paper application can be accessed in Hmong, Russian, Somali, Spanish, and Vietnamese

3. While care and eligibility varies from person to person, Minnesota Care may pay for doctor visits, prescriptions, and hospital stays

4. This is typically only available to those with a SSN, please check with your case manager with further questions

Additional Information: MinnesotaCare / Minnesota Department of Human Services

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Medical Assistance (MA)

1. Medical Assistance (MA) is Minnesota’s Medicaid program for people with low income. 

2. Adults and families with children can apply online at MNSure

3. May be eligible if you already have health insurance; MA may be an insurance supplement

4. This is typically only available to those with a SSN, please check with your case manager with further questions

Additional Information: Medical Assistance (MA) / Minnesota Department of Human Services

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sharing and Caring Hands

1. A variety of day services are available including: 

   • Dental exams

   • Vision exam vouchers

   • Beds for new appartments

   • Shoes

   • Bus cards for employment

Additional Information: Sharing and Caring Hands

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program

2. SNAP is a government program to help individuals supplement their food income. 

3. Some may be eligible for cash benefits as well 

4. You must have already obtained a work permit or AAN to be able to access SNAP

Additional Information: How to Check Minnesota EBT Card Balance

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

CAPRW

1. SNAP eligibility screening

2. Assistance applying for SNAP

More Info: https://caprw.org/get-assistance.html

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program

1. Supplemental nutrition for pregnant or breastfeeding mothers, or mothers with children under 5 years of age

2. Benefits distributed in the form of food allowances

3. You DO NOT need a SSN to apply 

Additional Information: Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Program

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

General Assistance- Family Assisters

The Family Assisters program provides interpretation and works with a variety of basic and immediate needs. 

1. Employment and Housing

   1. Referrals to organizations like Daily Works, Upwardly Global, and Vocational Rehab services 

   2. Help with budget, housing eligibility, housing search, rental applications and assistance, viewing scheduling, etc. 

2. Mail reading

   1. Assistance reading and understanding mail 

3. Health Care and Public Assistance 

   1. Applications for SNAP, SSN, Healthcare, etc. 

4. Immigration Services

   1. Occasional help applying for EAD

5. Food Access

   1. Direct access to food from YMCA

   2. Referrals to food delivery services or other pantries 

Additional information: Family Assisters

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ramsey County Assistance

1. Ramsey County offers assistance to seniors (age 65+) through the state of Minnesota. 

2. Services include economic assistance, medical care and other types of service. A list can be found here.

3. An intake assessment to determine if you qualify is available here. You must have a SSN. 

Additional Information: Senior Service 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Oromo Community Center

1. Senior Program

2. Employment Assistance

More info: Community Center

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

*For more information on these and other programs or for assistance applying, check with your social worker or case manager

International Institute of Minnesota

1. The International Institute is an organization that provides English classes and other educational services to immigrants and refugees.

2. Their English intake is done in person. Other vocational training programs can be applied for online. 

Additional Information: International Institute of Minnesota 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Open Door Learning Center

1. The Open Door Learning Center (Literacy Minnesota) provides classes in ESL, GED, job skills/preparation and other educational areas. 

2. Open Door Midway: 540 Fairview Ave (a.m.) and 553 Fairview Ave (p.m.), Saint Paul, MN 55104. Phone: 612-567-9095. 

3. Vocational courses offered in:

   1. English

   2. Computer Skills

   3. College Prep 

Additional Information: Learn at Open Door 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

School Supplies

1. Around the time when children go back to school, there are several locations around the Twin Cities that offer free backpacks and school supplies. If you are looking for these, you can check Google, ask your case worker, or ask the Jonathan House Support Coordinator to help you connect with opportunities

2. If you are an adult looking for school supplies, you can check Reach and Restore, or ask your school what they have available

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Vocational Training Programs

1. Many English language schools also offer vocational training opportunities which you can explore on their websites. Opportunities may include: 

   • Cultural Orientation 

   • Nursing or Dietary Aid Training

   • Leadership Training

   • Financial Workshops

   • Computer Education Classes

2. See "Language / Education / English Class"

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hubbs Center for Lifelong Learning

1. Offer a variety of career development classes including: 

• • Child Development

  • Building Maintenance

  • CDL

  • Nursing

  • Medical Office

  • Small Business Ownership

  • Other

Additional Information: HUBBS

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hmong American Partnership Program

1. Offer a variety of career development classes including: 

• Health Care

• Manufacturing

• Transportation

• Information Technology 

Additional Information: HAPP

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Avivo

1. In order to receive vocational training through Avivo, you will be matched with a personal career coach. They provide: 

• Case Management 

• Personalized Career Service Training 

Additional Information: Avivo Career Services

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Goodwill

1. Goodwill offers a free website with hundreds of informational and educational courses on basic skills. 

2. Some of the courses they offer include:

   1. Computers

   2. Finance

   3. Educational Training

   4. Linguistics

   5. Social Media

   6. GED

   7. Grammar

   8. Microsoft office programs

To view all courses or to get additional information visit: Free Online Learning at GCFGlobal

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

YWCA St. Paul

1. The YWCA offers career counseling and several job training courses, including: 

   1. CDL

   2. Office Essentials

   3. CNA

Additional Information: EED

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Project for Pride in Living

1. The Project for Pride in Living offers free job training programs, both night classes and daytime classes. 

2. Offer vocational courses in:

   1. Financial Services

   2. Healthcare/CNA

   3. Office Specialist

   4. Human Services

   5. Pharmacy Tech

   6. Paraprofessional

3. Also offer career coaching and host other free workshops. 

Additional Information: Training Programs

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Why Volunteer?

1. Make community connections

2. Grow experience for your resume

3. Help other people

4. Create structure and daily routine

Common Places to Volunteer

1. Schools

2. Hospitals

3. Soup Kitchens

Additional Information: Hands-On Twin Cities

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Applying for a MN State ID or Learners Permit

1. Bring SSN and work permit to DMV to apply for ID

2. They will give you your temporary document immediately after applying

3. REAL ID is necessary for air travel and federal identification

4. To apply for a learners permit, you will need all of the above and in addition will need to pass a written test which will allow you to drive with certain limitations until taking a road test

Additional Information: DVS Home 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Studying for Your Test

There are many resources that can be used to prepare for your driver’s permit test, here are a few below: 

1. YouTube video series that walks you through the questions on the MN exam

2. MN Department of Motor Vehicles website has a guide you can read from

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The order for obtaining an ID is as follows: Visa/Asylum Application ----> EAD ----> SSN ---> Photo ID 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ATM Use

Using an ATM, you are able to withdraw EBT Cash Benefits and/or check your monthly balance. You will need: 

1. EBT Card

2. EBT Card Pin Number 

Additional Information:

1. In order to withdraw funds directly from your card, you will need to select the “credit” option. 

2. Your monthly balance is refilled in accordance with the last digit of your case number, from the 4th-13th of each month. See the MN DHS page for more information on when benefits are paid.  

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Bank Account 

The process to open a bank account varies based on which branch you choose. In addition, there are two basic types of accounts you may want to open to get started, either savings or checkings. 

To open a bank account, you will typically need:

1. U.S. State or Government Issued Identification

2. To be over age 18; provide date of birth 

3. Social Security or Taxpayer Identification Number 

4. Proof of address 

5. $25-$500 to open account; debit card/account information to make initial deposit 

6. Watch for hidden fees- Credit Unions and smaller, local banks tend to have less of these 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Paying Taxes

In the United States if you receive an income, you are responsible to file taxes each year by April 14th. Taxes are money paid to the government out of your pay-check each year. If the government takes too much out of your paycheck, they might owe you money. If they take too little, you might owe them money. There is also a chance you may have some deductions based on your situation. There are a lot of resources that can help explain the other complexities to you. 

Some documents you might want to take with you when you get your taxes done are: 

1. Social Security Number

2. W-2 

3. 1099 (If self-employed)

4. 1099-INT (If you have a bank account)

For some resources that can help you file your taxes, see here: 

1. AARP Filing Locations- Twin Cities 

2. UMN Tax Prep Locations- Twin Cities 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Creating a Budget

A helpful way to manage your finances and save money can be creating a budget. This allows you to project, track, and control your expenses each month. 

1. Apps such as Mint or Everydollar can connect to your bank account and track expenses for you

2. Other applications such as Google Sheets can help you create and track your own budget. 

Additional Information: Budget Worksheet

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

EAD Application

1. Typically your lawyer will help you with your EAD application when the time comes, but other community organizations such as the MN Council of Churches or the USCIS Contact Center may be able to help as well. 

2. This is an important step before looking for a job, so make sure not to skip over it 

Additional Information: MN Council of Churches | USCIS Contact Center

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Upwardly Global

1. Helps connect you to a job in your field

2. Must have:

   1. A professional degree from back home

   2. A career from back home

   3. Proficiency in English 

   4. Work Permit or other permanent status 

3. Offer services online through a job training coach who helps with: 

   1. Discernment 

   2. Job coaching

   3. Resume building

   4. Job search 

   5. Application process

   6. Follow up 

Additional Information: Upwardly Global

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

HAP (Hmong American Partnership)

1. HAP serves refugee and immigrant communities 

2. They offer: 

   1. Job Training 

   2. Employment Services

Additional Information: Hmong American Partnership

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Vocational Rehabilitation Services

VocRehab is a program run by the MN State Government. 

1. Services are available to people with intellectual or physical disabilities who otherwise may struggle to find work

2. A case manager is assigned to each person to assist with job preparation, search, applications, interviews, and initial intake

Additional Information: Vocational Rehab Services 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

International Institute of Minnesota

1. See more information about the International Institute in the Vocational training section

2. Drop in job search support and preparation courses

Additional Information: IIMN Workforce Development 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Daily Works

Helps people get connected to job opportunities that fit their skills, interests, training, and timeframe. 

Additional Information: Daily Works

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Important Employment Information

It is important to understand certain facets of applying for and holding a job in the United States. If you are not familiar with the following: 

1. Resume and Cover Letter Writing

2. Applying for jobs and following up with potential employers

3. Dressing for an interview 

4. Networking 

5. Avoiding Scams

6. Employment benefits and Employee Rights 

7. Using LinkedIn or other job search engines 

I would encourage you to reach out to one of the above programs for more information! 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hennepin County Shelter Program

1. Works to keep you in the housing you have if possible

2. Provides case management and comprehensive housing services to families

3. No time limit on receiving shelter services for families

4. Do not need to be a resident of Hennepin County 

5. Hotline: 612-204-8200 

6. More Information: Hennepin County Shelters

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Family Assisters Program

1. Assistance with finding housing and a variety of other resources for long-term stability

2. Can self-refer or have someone fill out the referral form for you

3. Work with individuals and families

4.  More information can be found here: Family Assisters MN

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

International Institute

1. The International Institute also provides housing services. 

Additional Information: Housing Services 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Renter’s Insurance

1. Renter’s insurance is a good and affordable way to protect yourself against any incidents that may happen while you are renting an apartment or home.

2. You may be able to bundle renter’s insurance with car insurance and possibly receive a discount on car insurance. If you have car insurance, ask your agent about it. 

3. It is very inexpensive, sometimes as little as $5-10/month. 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

RentHelpMN

1. Rental assistance for those struggling to pay month to month, or who are behind on rent for a month 

2. State funded program 

Additional Information: RentHelpMN Webpage

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Zacah

1. Helps with rental or car assistance on as needed basis

2. May pay first month rent or emergency rental help 

3. May be able to assist with other needs (groceries, etc.)

4. Limited housing for female survivors of domestic violence

Additional Information: Zacah Aid and Charity Assisting Humanity 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Bridge to Benefits

1. Affordable housing search list

2. Variety of other services for aid/financial assistance 

Additional Information: Bridge to Benefits Housing Resource List

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Al Maa’uun Housing 

Al Maa’uun provides a few different services. 

1. Housing case management- geared towards helping people find long-term stable housing 

2. Emergency rental and utility assistance 

Additional Information: Al Maa’unn- The Neighborly Need

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Housing Link

1. Free search for affordable housing around the Twin Cities

Additional Information:  Housing Link 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sarah's...an Oasis for Women

Provides mid-term housing to:

1. Women who are receiving services from: 

• Advocates for Human Rights

• Center for Victims of Torture

• International Institute of MN

2. If you have a case manager at any of the above locations, you may consult them about availability at Sarah's. 

Additional Information: Sarah's...an Oasis for Women

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Casa Guadalupana

Provides mid-term housing to:

1. Men, women, and children with varying immigration statuses (including asylum seekers) 

Additional Information: Casa Guadalupana

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

CLUES Emergency Housing Hotline

CLUES is a local social service organization providing services to Latinx immigrants. 

1. Their emergency housing hotline can be reached at: 612-746-3500

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hennepin County Shelters

Hennepin County has a variety of emergency shelters available to people who are seeking asylum

1. Adult Shelter Connect: 612-248-2350

2. Families with children are covered under the shelter all policy and are encouraged to call the family shelter team at 612-348-9410

3. The American Indian Community Development Corporation operates culturally-specific shelters onsite intake at Homeward Bound (2012 Cedar Ave South) and their Wakiagun overnight drop-in (1600 E 19th St)

4. Youth shelters (and other services) also promote their real time availability at Youth Services Network (ysnmn.org)

Additional Information: Emergency programs | Hennepin County

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Common Bond Communities

1. Affordable housing online search

Additional Information: Common Bond

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Other Housing Options  

Other organizations in the community that may be able to assist with housing needs include: 

1. Lutheran Social Services

2. Avivo (Requires Coordinated Entry)

3. Accord- Day Support Services (For people with disabilities) 

4. Supportive Living Solutions

5. Zillow - Housing search broken down by location, cost, etc. 

6. Air BnB Emergency Stays Program- open to Asylum Seekers

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ramsey County

1. Information on Ramsey County housing services and emergency shelters

Additional Information: Ramsey County

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Pro Tips

Starting off in a new country can be overwhelming to say the least. Mastering or even understanding another culture’s habits, etiquette, language, and customs is no small task. A great way to begin to understand and navigate your new culture, is to simply ask. When you see someone doing or saying something you don’t understand, it may be helpful to describe the situation to someone in your new culture and ask them to explain to you why that was happening. 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Basic Cultural Awareness

For some basic tips on navigating U.S. culture, check out some of the following resources:

1. Cultural Values and Beliefs

   1. Basic American Cultural Values

   2. American Core Beliefs

2. Cultural Habits and Behaviors

   1. "Strange" American Habits 

   2. Funny Things Americans Do

   3. Guide to American Culture and Etiquette

3. Government and Issues

   1. U.S. Government Structure 

   2. Topics of Concern/Interest to Americans 

4. Welcome Guides and Cultural Orientation 

1. IIMN Community Orientation Workshops 

2. Multilingual Welcome Guide 

Of course culture is complex and there is so much more that informs different customs, beliefs, and habits. It may be confusing at first, but keep asking questions and staying open to learning and eventually you will find yourself ever more comfortable navigating American culture. 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Minnesota Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)

“The Child Care Assistance Program helps parents with low incomes pay for child care so they can work, go to school or look for a job. It helps make sure children are well cared for and prepared to enter school.”

1. You will need to fill out an online application after determining your eligibility for the program 

Additional Information: DHS MN CCAP Family Guide. 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Think Small- Early Learning Scholarship

1. A scholarship designed to help younger kids access pre-school education and childcare. 

Additional Information: Think Small Early Learning Scholarship

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Employment Training with Child Care

Though oftentimes employment training/job preparation courses DO NOT provide childcare during the hours of the course. Some organizations that offer vocational training and MAY provide child are are:

1. YMCA

2. Hmong American Partnership 

3. Goodwill 

4. International Institute

5. Hubbs

It is always good to call and check once you have identified a program that may interest you to ask if childcare is provided or not

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Other Child Care Resources 

1. Hallie Q. Brown Childhood Development Center

2. Wilder Organization

3. Bridge to Benefits

4. Head Start 

5. Parent Aware

   • Parent Aware provides resources to help parents locate quality child care. For more information, visit their website. 

   • They provide information on childcare services and information on what to look for in a childcare program. 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

YMCA Summer Camps                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 1. The YMCA  offers summer camp day programs for children of all ages

Additional Information: Summer Programming

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

*Checking with your child's school for summer child care or afterschool programs is another great place to start

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Post-Asylum Care

There are a variety of services available that can help you access the benefits you are entitled to after being granted asylum. Some of these resources might include: 

1. SSN

2. MN State ID

3. Health Insurance 

4. Refugee Cash Assistance

5. SNAP

6. I-765 Application

Additional Information: MN Council of Churches | International Institute of MN- Asylum Case Management

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------