DPSS uses county’s annual observance of refugees to amplify message about supportive programs and services
In observance of Refugee Awareness Month in the County of Los Angeles, the
Department of Public Social Services (DPSS) is highlighting the contributions of
immigrants that make L.A. one of the strongest and culturally diverse counties in the
nation.
The department is ensuring that immigrants are informed about the many vital programs
and services available to them through the department’s Greater Avenues for
Independence (GAIN), which provides employment-related services to help participants
find and sustain employment and move on to higher paying jobs. The Refugee
Employment Program (REP), which operates under GAIN, provides five years of
employment and training services for eligible refugees and asylees, five years from date
of entry or the date asylum is granted. The program also REP offers outreach, case
management and placement services to refugees.
The California Department of Social Services Refugee Programs Bureau reports that
nearly 2,000 refugees arrived in L.A. County within the past five years. Declaring June
as “Refugee Awareness Month” at their June 6 public meeting, the Board of Supervisors
acknowledged the plight of families forced to flee their home countries due to religious
and political persecution, war, and civil unrest.
“Refugees share a common goal with other immigrants to achieve the American dream,”
Board of Supervisors Chair Janice Hahn wrote in her motion. “Through their many skills
and talents, faiths, and shared common values, they enrich our nation both culturally and
economically.”
Collaborating with the L.A. County Office of Emergency Management, Office of Immigrant
Affairs, Department of Public Health, and local refugee service organizations, DPSS is
using its social media platforms, media outreach and weekly Essential DPSS resource
newsletter to amplify the messages about employment training and time-limited cash
assistance for housing, and other necessary expenses.
This year’s local refugee service organization partners include, but are not limited to
Church World Service, Islamic Circle of North America, Interfaith Refugee and
Immigration Service, International Institute of Los Angeles, International Rescue
Committee, Jobs Vision Success SoCal, Refugee Forum of Los Angeles, and Uplift
Charity.
The Refugee Forum of L.A. will host an event on June 20, to observe World Refugee Day
to raise awareness about the plight of refugees around the world. The event will feature
an exhibit, community resources, and a valuable presentation on public charge. The
event will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the Grand Park Olive Court and Lawn
in downtown L.A. This year’s theme is “Building a Brighter Future.”
For more information about DPSS refugee programs, visit the DPSS YouTube page to
view the What is Refugee Services video.
