Newcomers to the United States often face many challenges as they become familiar with the language, culture, public services, and everyday life in their local communities. This process can take considerable time, especially for those who do not yet have a network of friends or relatives in the United States.
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The United States has a wide-ranging support system for immigrants. By taking the time to explore available resources, you may be able to access valuable assistance during the early stages of settlement, making the transition process easier.
In particular, many government agencies, libraries, schools, and community organizations offer programs that help immigrants and refugees settle in, improve their English, connect with the community, and better understand U.S. society.
This article provides an overview of common forms of support that you and your family may wish to explore.
What Types of Support May Be Available?
Depending on the organization, location, and participant eligibility, services may include:
- English classes for adults;
- citizenship test preparation and civics education;
- assistance completing forms or connecting with appropriate services;
- guidance on using public transportation;
- computer skills training and access to online services;
- orientation programs on U.S. culture and daily life;
- community activities or peer-support groups;
- programs for parents, children, and youth;
- assistance with housing, food, health care, or employment;
- mental health support and help adjusting to a new life;
- volunteer, recreational, and social-connection activities;
- referrals to appropriate legal services or government agencies.
Not every organization offers all of these services. Some programs are open to all residents in the area, while others serve only specific groups.
Where Can You Find Support?
1. State or Local Immigrant Support Offices
Some states, counties, and cities have offices dedicated to assisting immigrants and newcomers. These offices may provide information in multiple languages or refer residents to trusted community organizations.
In states with large immigrant populations, Offices for New Americans or similar immigrant-support offices provide services through networks of partner organizations. Depending on the area, services may include English classes, digital-skills assistance, employment guidance, community activities, and referrals to immigration legal services.
You may search for terms such as:
- “Office for New Americans”;
- “immigrant affairs office”;
- “newcomer services”;
- “immigrant community services”;
together with the name of the state, county, or city where you live.
2. Nonprofit Organizations and Community Centers
Many nonprofit organizations serve immigrants, refugees, or specific language communities. They may provide newcomers with information on accessing public services, enrolling in classes, participating in employment-support programs, or connecting with other members of the community.
Some organizations also offer:
- newcomer orientation sessions;
- English conversation groups;
- mentoring programs or volunteer matching;
- cultural activities and family events;
- computer-skills classes;
- programs for women, older adults, or youth;
- interpretation assistance or referrals to services available in an appropriate language.
3. Public Libraries
Public libraries are more than places to borrow books. Many provide computers, internet access, English classes, digital-skills instruction, job-search assistance, and free activities for children or families.
Library staff may also help you find:
- English as a Second Language (ESL) classes;
- citizenship preparation classes;
- adult education programs;
- English-learning materials;
- employment and training information;
- local support organizations;
- activities for children, parents, and older adults.
Required documents for obtaining a library card and eligibility for free classes may vary by location.
4. Schools, Community Colleges, and Adult Education Programs
Schools, community colleges, and adult education centers may offer English classes, computer-skills instruction, civics education, or short-term vocational training.
Some programs are free or low-cost. Others may require students to live in a particular area, meet age requirements, or provide certain enrollment documents.
If you have school-aged children, you may also ask the school about:
- interpretation services;
- family liaison staff;
- programs for English learner students;
- classes or activities for parents;
- meal and transportation assistance;
- school counseling services;
- extracurricular activities that help children make friends and integrate.
5. Resettlement Organizations
Refugees admitted to the United States through the refugee resettlement program may receive certain initial assistance through resettlement organizations. In addition, individuals who have been granted asylum in the United States (asylees) and certain other humanitarian groups may qualify for programs funded by the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR).
Depending on the program, services may include case management, English-language instruction, employment preparation, adjustment support, connections to health care, and referrals to community resources.
Eligibility, available services, and the duration of assistance depend on immigration category, the date eligibility begins, place of residence, and program funding. Individuals with pending asylum applications generally do not automatically qualify for ORR services available to people who have already been granted asylum.
6. 211 Information and Referral Services
In many parts of the United States, you can call 211 or visit 211.org to find resources near you.
The 211 helpline may provide information or refer callers to services such as:
- food banks;
- housing or utility-bill assistance;
- health care;
- mental health services;
- transportation;
- child care;
- programs for older adults;
- employment assistance;
- local community organizations.
The information you receive depends on the resources currently available in your area. Contact the provider directly to confirm.
7. Faith-Based Organizations and Community Groups
Churches, temples, mosques, cultural and community associations, and other community groups sometimes provide food, social activities, language classes, transportation assistance, or referrals to needed services.
These communities may also help newcomers reduce isolation and build social networks. However, while you are still learning how the system works, be cautious about informal advice concerning legal matters, immigration, taxes, or public benefits. Verify such information with an official agency or a properly qualified professional.
Where Should You Start?
First, identify your most important need. It may be learning English, finding a job, understanding government benefit policies, finding a school or educational program for your child, connecting with the community, or obtaining support with challenges in daily life.
Then you can:
- Call 211 and search for services using your ZIP code.
- Contact the public library nearest your home.
- Check your city, county, or state website.
- Look for a local immigrant-support organization.
- Ask about available languages, costs, and eligibility requirements.
- Contact the organization before visiting to confirm its hours and schedule.
Many newcomers hesitate to seek support because of limited English proficiency. English can make it easier to communicate with service providers; however, you do not need to wait until you speak English fluently before seeking assistance. Some immigrant-support offices offer language assistance for people who are not yet proficient in English.
Protecting Personal Information and Avoiding Scams
In the United States, protecting personal information is very important. A data breach or improper disclosure may expose you to identity theft and other forms of fraud.
Before sharing personal documents:
- check the organization’s name and address;
- verify information through an official website;
- ask whether the service is free;
- request a receipt if you must pay;
- do not send your Social Security number, work permit, or immigration records by text message to an unverified person;
- do not sign a form you do not understand;
- do not allow an unauthorized person to advise or represent you in an immigration matter.
Give priority to official government websites and reputable organizations, and verify contact information and the source of services before sharing personal documents.
If you are concerned that participating in a support program could affect your immigration case or status, consult a properly licensed immigration attorney or a DOJ-accredited representative working through a DOJ-recognized organization. Community workers, friends, and tax preparers are not necessarily authorized to provide immigration legal advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are community integration services free?
Many classes, library activities, and community programs are offered free of charge. Some programs charge tuition or require participants to purchase materials. Ask about all costs in advance.
Do I need to disclose my immigration status?
It depends on the service. Some community activities are open to all residents, while programs supported by specific funding sources may require eligibility verification. Before providing documents, ask what the organization requires and why.
Can I request an interpreter?
You may ask whether the organization has staff who speak your language, interpretation services, or translated materials. Language assistance varies by provider.
What if I feel isolated or have difficulty adjusting?
Feelings of loneliness, homesickness, or stress may arise while adjusting to a new life. You can begin by contacting a community organization, library, parent group, cultural community group, or mental health provider. If you need urgent mental health support or are thinking about harming yourself, call or text 988. For a life-threatening medical emergency or immediate danger, call 911.
Can I participate in more than one program at the same time?
Usually, yes, as long as you meet each program’s eligibility requirements and the class or activity schedules do not conflict. However, certain specially funded programs may have their own rules.
Helpful Links
| Resource | Website |
| Find Local Community Support (211) | https://www.211.org/ |
| Find English Classes and Adult Education Programs | https://www.literacydirectory.org/ |
| Find a Public Library in the United States | https://librarytechnology.org/libraries/uspublic/ |
| Find English or Citizenship Preparation Classes | https://www.uscis.gov/citizenship/find-study-materials-and-resources/find-an-english-or-civics-class |
| New York State Office for New Americans (ONA) | https://dos.ny.gov/office-new-americans |
| Find ONA Partner Organizations in New York | https://dos.ny.gov/node/82591 |
| Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) | https://www.acf.hhs.gov/orr |
| Mental Health Crisis Support (988) | https://988lifeline.org/ |
Information was reviewed in October 2026. Services, funding, and eligibility requirements may change. Contact the agency or service provider directly to confirm current information.