Refugee Resettlement

Worker teaching a refugee how to use a microwave.

Helping Refugees Develop Stability and Succeed

Our hearts go out to refugees who are suffering around the world. America has a long and proud history of serving refugees from all backgrounds dating back to World War II.

Through Refugee Resettlement in Minnesota, we are dedicated to helping refugees become independent and sustain their families as quickly as possible.

Our work is focused on family reunification, meaning that refugee arrivals are joining family members who are already here.

Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota works with refugees for 90 days when they first arrive to help them adapt to their new home and start their news lives. We help families:

Find Employment:

LSS works with many employers to connect refugees to jobs.

Secure Housing:

We help refugees find a place to live, and work with landlords to ensure that the tenant and landlord relationships are operating smoothly.

Enroll in School & English classes:

We connect refugees to schools and ELL classes.

Connect to Medical Care:

Refugees are required to receive a health exam within 30 days of arrival.

Orient to Minnesota Culture:

LSS offers an orientation to life in Minnesota.

Connect with Community Resources:

Refugees may need support filling out forms for health insurance, green cards and food assistance.

Receive Immigration Legal Services:

We assist refugees in filing various immigration forms that might include family reunification petitions, visas, travel documents and citizenship applications.

Refugee family outside.

“I came to the United States through the Special Immigrant Visa because I worked with the U.S. army in Afghanistan as an interpreter for five years. LSS helped us a lot. They provided a home and provided all basic necessities for us upon arrival when we came here. Also, they helped us learn how to make appointments at clinics and how to find a job. I appreciate them.” -- Matiullah Fahim, billing coordinator for Sky Chefs

There are many ways that you can help support refugees and make a difference in their lives. Thank you for helping us change lives!

Matiullah Fahim, billing coordinator for Sky Chefs

I came to the United States through the Special Immigrant Visa because I worked with the U.S. army in Afghanistan as an interpreter for five years. LSS helped us a lot. They provided a home and provided all basic necessities for us upon arrival when we came here. Also, they helped us learn how to make appointments at clinics, how to find a job. I appreciate them.