Immigrant Services
The JFCS Immigrant Services program was started to help refugees become reunited with family members and helps transition them into American life. Our agency is the local affiliate of the Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society (HIAS), which has spearheaded Jewish immigration for more than 100 years. JFCS provides more than just the "bread-and-butter" services that the State Department requires of HIAS. We have partnered with the Oregon State Refugee Case Service Project (RCSP) and other local volunteer agencies because we believe that effective resettlement involves more than just moving from one place to another. It is a transition across culture, language and lifestyle that requires considerable support and assistance throughout the process. This led to the creation of the JFCS Integrated Senior Access Project (ISAP), which has been serving local Russian-speaking seniors for the past 7 years and must be staffed by a bilingual program coordinator in order to provide this unique group of seniors with the translation assistance; advocacy & dispute resolution support; and help to access medical care, community resources & government benefits they need.
Integrated Senior Access Project
The Integrated Senior Access Project (ISAP) is the result of public and private research efforts and collaborative planning with local senior program leaders in the Portland-metro area.
ISAP incorporates multiple services to low-income seniors, many of whom are Russian-speaking refugees and immigrants. The services include case management, transportation assistance, social activities, cultural events, nutritious meals coupled with cultural and educational programs, food boxes, translation and interpreter services, and English language and citizenship classes.
Translation Services
Often new comers have difficulty with various government forms that are written in their new language. It takes a while before they become proficient in English, and for many older refugees, they will never become comfortable with English language skills. It is often difficult for most of us to decipher social security rules and correspondence and for a non-English speaker it is nearly impossible. Our staff is available particularly to elder refugees and immigrants to provide translation and interpretation when needed.
Language Classes
Our Community Immigrant Services program also offers English language and citizenship classes that are offered by community volunteers. Efforts are made to provide various levels of classes from beginners to more advanced conversational classes. If you would like information regarding these classes or how you can become a volunteer please call (503)226-7079.
Contact Us
For information or assistance, contact Rita Shmulevsky at 503-226-7079 x115. |
