COLUMBUS, Ohio — As national conversations intensify over the role and presence of refugees in American cities, Ohio’s refugee resettlement programs have come into focus. Discussions have recently surged following claims by President-elect Donald Trump and Senator JD Vance, who cited alleged issues involving Haitian refugees in Springfield—claims that were later deemed unfounded by local authorities.
While political rhetoric continues, questions have arisen about what support is available for refugees in Ohio, including access to healthcare, financial assistance, and employment services. Ohio has long been part of a national and international effort to help individuals displaced by war, political upheaval, or persecution, allowing refugees to build new lives within its borders.
According to the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS), the state has resettled approximately 4,000 to 5,000 refugees over the past decade, primarily from countries such as Somalia, Bhutan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. In 2023, the United States admitted around 25,000 refugees nationwide, with Ohio receiving a small but significant share due to its robust support programs and resources aimed at helping these individuals integrate successfully.
Understanding Ohio’s Refugee Assistance Programs
Ohio’s Refugee Program Services, managed by ODJFS, is dedicated to helping refugees achieve self-sufficiency as they adapt to life in the United States. These programs offer vital support during the challenging transition period for refugees, including financial and medical assistance, employment services, and health screenings.
1. Refugee Cash Assistance
One of the primary support measures is Refugee Cash Assistance, which provides a financial lifeline for refugees ineligible for the state’s Ohio Works First (OWF) program, also known as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). Refugees can receive cash assistance for up to eight months after arrival, helping them cover essential living expenses while they seek stable employment.
2. Refugee Medical Assistance
For refugees who do not qualify for Medicaid, Ohio offers a specialized medical assistance program covering healthcare needs for the first year after arrival. This program ensures that refugees have access to necessary medical care, which is crucial as they settle into their new lives. Many newly arrived refugees undergo thorough health screenings within 30 days, and the program continues to monitor their health and provide essential services.
3. Refugee Health Screening Program
The Refugee Health Screening Program is a cornerstone of Ohio’s refugee services, aiming to detect and address health issues among newly arrived refugees. Conducted within 30 days of arrival, these screenings provide a comprehensive assessment of each individual’s health and allow for timely medical interventions if needed. Health information is also available in multiple languages to ensure that refugees can understand critical health topics and services.
Other Essential Refugee Support Services
Ohio’s refugee programs go beyond cash and medical assistance, addressing additional areas essential to refugees’ integration and well-being.
- Refugee Support Services Program: This program focuses on employability services and removes barriers to employment, such as language interpretation, childcare, and helps with naturalization processes.
- Services to Older Refugees: Designed specifically for elderly refugees, this program addresses unique social and health needs to ensure they, too, can thrive in their new communities.
- Refugee School Impact Program: This program supports young refugees, helping them adjust to U.S. schools, which is essential for long-term success and integration.
- Refugee Health Promotion: With a focus on health education, this program offers resources in multiple languages to ensure refugees understand their healthcare rights and options.
Ohio’s Role in a National Debate
As the nation deliberates the future of immigration policy and refugee resettlement, Ohio’s approach provides a model for how targeted, well-structured support services can help refugees succeed in their new homes. These services have become particularly relevant amid ongoing discussions across media outlets about the economic and social impact of refugees in America.
Despite recent claims concerning immigrant groups in Ohio, local authorities and refugee service providers have emphasized that refugees, like other residents, are here to rebuild their lives and contribute positively to the communities in which they settle. The Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) continues to coordinate with local agencies in Ohio, highlighting the state’s commitment to providing both immediate and long-term support to those seeking safety and a fresh start.