In a Changing Landscape, Start by Assessing Local Needs Nationally, the housing and refugee resettlement landscape looks different now than it did a few years ago. But those changes manifest differently in each community. The first step in adaptation is understanding. In 2008, Idaho recognized such shifts and conducted a subsequent needs assessment of local…
Addressing Common Misconceptions About HUD Federal agencies can be intimidating. Jargon and misconceptions can leave many unsure about how to connect to agencies and access resources. For refugees and other newcomers, an unfamiliarity with the U.S. government entities, laws, and procedures can compound confusion and increase hesitancy. Refugee Housing Solutions wants to remove these barriers…
With a current rental vacancy rate of just six percent, housing in the United States is difficult to secure. Several factors—credit requirements, income level, transportation needs, and family size, to name a few—further complicate the housing search for newcomers. Finding housing that fits clients’ needs, eligibility, and the housing standards set by the Bureau of Population,…
One of the ways that Refugee Housing Solutions team members support all 10 Resettlement Agencies, and their local affiliates, is with in-person technical assistance and support. RHS staff are available to join national and regional meetings where refugee and newcomer housing is a topic and where RHS staff insights, connections, and facilitation skills can add…