In September and October of 2024, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) awarded at total of $467,200 to Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Palm Beach for their work in assisting refugees and asylum seekers.  This funding, which comprises three separate grant awards, helps the newly arrived in the United States to reach self-sufficiency as quickly as possible and assists them with social and economic adjustment to their new community.  The program serves newly arrived refugees, asylees, Cuban/Haitian Entrants, victims of human trafficking, and parolees living with a sponsor within our 5 county service area (Palm Beach, Martin, Okeechobee, St. Lucie, and Indian River).  All are foreign-born clients seeking a better life away from oppression, violence, and lack of freedom. 

The main goal of the Refugee Resettlement Program is to facilitate the client’s self-sufficiency through employment, to ensure that they can provide for themselves, as well as giving them a sense of responsibility and involvement in their new community. Services may include: cash assistance; emergency housing assistance; transportation; employment services; orientation and referrals to community resources. The program promotes a resettlement model in which case management provides essential services and tools for developing the client’s self-sufficiency and employability.

The USCCB plays a significant role in assisting refugees through its Migration and Refugee Services division. Through grants awarded to Catholic Charities USA affiliates, services supported include resettlement services, housing assistance, job placement, access to education, emergency assistance, legal assistance, advocacy, and community support. Overall, the USCCB's multifaceted approach helps ensure that refugees receive the support and resources they need to rebuild their lives in a new country.