When refugees and immigrants come to the US, the main goal for them is self-sufficiency. They want to stand on their own feet and get stability in a new country.

Below is a step-by-step mini guide on how newcomers to the US can become self-sufficient.

First step: Secure Stabilization and Benefits

• Tap into Resettlement Agencies: Work closely with resettlement agencies or local Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) affiliates. They help navigate housing, food assistance, healthcare enrollment, and cash/medical aid.

• Complete Assessments: Participate in a Family Self-Sufficiency Plan (FSSP) or equivalent intake assessment with caseworkers to map out short-term and long-term goals for your household.

Second Step: Learn and Adapt to the Local Language and Culture

• Enroll in English Classes (if needed): Language proficiency is one of the biggest factors for employment opportunities and navigating daily life in the US.

• Complete Cultural Orientation: Take advantage of classes covering local laws, public safety, banking, and public transportation.

• Build Digital Literacy: Basic computer and smartphone skills are essential for finding jobs, filling out forms, and communicating in the US.

Third Step: Build Economic Independence

• Pursue Pre-Employment Services: Utilize resume workshops, job-training seminars, and workforce placement programs offered by resettlement groups.

• Explore Credential Evaluation: If you hold a degree, trade certification, or license in your home country, look into programs that help translate, re-certify, or utilize your credentials for the US job market.

• Consider Entrepreneurship: Many refugee programs offer micro-loans, business training, and financial education if you want to start a small business.

• Find Employment: When you enter the US, even if you were a lawyer or a doctor, the important thing is to find employment as soon as you can that pays your bills. Paying rent, insurance, and daily expenses will be the top priority. Even if you find a basic job at a restaurant or in a store, that is a good place to start. The main thing is to find something to create a flow of money to ensure you can start your road to self-sufficiency.

• Gain Means of Transportation: Buying a car, motorcycle, or other means of transport is essential, as the US runs on cars and the like. However, getting familiar with public transportation options in your area and how to use it can save you money and be a lifesaver when you cannot afford a car or when it is inconvenient for you to use one.

Step 4: Establish a Support Network and Community

• Connect with Refugee-Led Organizations (RLOs): Groups run by and for former refugees (such as local cultural associations or community centers) offer peer mentoring, informal job leads, and emotional support.

• Prioritize Mental Health and Wellness: Disruption, trauma, and transition stress are common. Use free or low-cost newcomer wellness programs to stay resilient.

• Join the Larger Community Beyond: Though it is essential to connect with newcomers to the US such as yourself, it is also important to get involved in your local general community. Attend local events, join clubs based on hobbies, and get involved in your local government by attending town halls.