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If you have questions,

Please email us at: uscoamman@iom.int


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WELCOME TO THE UNITED STATES

This book is designed to help you prepare for your new life in the United States
of America. It was a big decision to move to the United States and there are
many challenges on the road ahead of you. Understanding what some of these
challenges are, and what to do about them, will help you in learning to live in the
U.S. No guidebook, however, can answer all your questions; it will take many
years to learn all you need to know about the U.S. We ask you, then, to approach
your new life in the U.S. with a sense of adventure, an open mind, and an
attitude that says I can do it. Good luck and welcome to the United States!

















THE VIEWS EXPRESSED IN THIS GUIDE ARE THOSE OF THE AUTHORS AND NOT
NECESSARILY THOSE OF THE GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED STATES PREPARED BY
THE INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATION FOR MIGRATION Amman-Jordan 2008

Statue of Liberty - New York City


TABLE OF CONTENTS

Topic Page

1. The United States of America 1

2. Pre-Arrival Processing 9

3. Travel to America 12

4. Cultural Shock 23

5. Laws in the US 26

6. Refugees rights and responsibilities 28

7. Role of the Resettlement Agency 32

8. Housing 34

9. Employment 37

10. Education 42

11. Health 46

12. Community Services 51

13. Transportation 52

13. Budgeting and money management 53



- 1 -
The United States of America: an OVERVIEW
___________________________________________________________

You should know

America is a land of immigrants, made up of many different ethnic groups that
migrated to the U.S. over the years. Because if its diversity, America is
referred to as the melting pot; where each migrant group has contributed to
the enrichment of its social, cultural, and economic composition. Yet, all
Americans share common beliefs and characteristics, such as hard work and
honesty.

America is a land of opportunity, where you will be given the chance to be
successful. Opportunity + HARD WORK = Success.


THE AMERICAN FLAG



The US flag is also referred to as OLD GLORY


The American flag has 50 stars, which symbolize the 50 states. It has 13
stripes, which symbolize the 13 original colonies.


- 2 -

MAP OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA


THE LAND
The United States is the 3
rd

largest country in the world with a
land area of 9,161,923 sq km in size.
It is very varied in landforms, from
rainforest in the Northwest, to
desert in the Southwest, high,
rocky mountains in the West,
endless flat plains in the Central
regions, rolling farmland in the
Eastern regions, and more farmland
in the South. Population density is
highest in the Northeast and in
California.

THE CLIMATE
Americas climate is as varied as
its land and its people.
Spring: (March-May): cool
breezes, rising temperatures,
gentle rains.
Summer: (June Aug): Hot in
most places, especially the
south.
Autumn: (Sept Nov): leaves
turn yellow and fall.
Temperatures drop to 0 degrees
Celsius (32 F) in the north.
Winter: (Dec Feb): Snow, cold
in the north; moderate in the
south.

- 3 -
States Abbr States Abbr States Abbr
Alabama AL Louisiana LA Ohio OH
Alaska AK Maine ME Oklahoma OK
Arizona AZ Maryland MD Oregon OR
Arkansas AR Massachusetts MA Pennsylvania PA
California CA Michigan MI Rhode Island RL
Colorado CA Mississippi MS South Carolina SC
Connecticut CT Minnesota MN South Dakota SD
Delaware DE Missouri MO Tennessee TN
Florida FL Montana MT Texas TX
Georgia GA Nebraska NE Utah UT
Hawaii HI Nevada NV Vermont VT
Idaho ID New Hampshire NH Virginia VA
Illinois IL New Jersey NJ Washington WA
Indiana IN New Mexico NM West Virginia WV
Iowa IA New York NY Wisconsin WI
Kansas KS North Carolina NC Wyoming WY
Kentucky KY North Dakota ND
Washington DC, or the District of Columbia, is the capital of the U.S.


















- 4 -




















































- 5 -

THE AMERICAN PEOPLE

Population in 2008: 310,000,000; third in the world, after China and
India.
600,000 - 800,000 immigrants from 200 countries arrive in the U.S.
each year; 40% come from Mexico, India, China, Philippines, and
Vietnam.
In recent years, 50,000 refugees are admitted to the U.S. each year.
In 2008, the largest number of refugees came from the Near East
and South Asia (18,545); second was East Asia (16,000). In the
upcoming year, the U.S. is expected to welcome some 12,000-20,000
Iraqi refugees.
68% of Americans are white; 12% are African American; 10% are
Hispanic (Latinos), and 10% are of Asian and other decent.
10% of Americas population was not born in the U.S. It is estimated
that in 50 years, half of all Americans will be non-white, due to
immigration and high birth rates amongst minorities. It is also common
to see marriages between couples of mixed national, ethnic, and
religious background.

AMERICAN HISTORY


Native Americans are the original inhabitants
of North America. They are believed to have
arrived from Asia, over an ice bridge covering
the Bering Strait from Russia to Alaska,
about 15,000-30,000 years ago. Today they
make up less than 1% of the population.

1492 Christopher Columbus, an Italian explorer,
departed from Spain and discovered America.

1620 The Pilgrims land in Plymouth, Massachusetts. The first white
settlers arrived in a ship named the Mayflower; 50 of the 102 passengers
were Pilgrims, seeking religious freedom from the Anglican Church in
England.

1775-1781 The American Revolution. England saw the American
colonies as a source of money and imposed taxes on the colonists, even
though they had no representation in the British government. Discontent

- 6 -
increased until fighting broke out in 1775. The colonists won and the
British gave up their claim to American lands in 1781.


1776 The Declaration of Independence.
This document, written by Thomas Jefferson
on behalf of the colonies, outlines the core
concepts that guide American
society. The Declaration states
that all men are created equal,
and that all people have the
rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. July 4,
1776 was declared Independence Day.

1789-1797 President George Washington. First president of the
United States, the Father of our Country; his picture can be seen on the
one-dollar bill and the quarter coin.

1776 1898 Growth and Expansion. After
independence, millions of new immigrants began
flooding into the newly created country and the
United States began expanding its boundaries. By
1848, the U.S. had acquired all the land that
makes up the continental United States. Alaska
was bought from Russia in 1867 and Hawaii was
annexed in 1898. They became the 49
th
and 50
th

states in 1959.

1861 1865 The Civil War. From the earliest days of the 13 colonies,
black people from Africa were brought over as slaves. Slavery was
accepted in the Southern states, but not in the Northern states. This,
and other issues, pushed the South to decide to separate from the North
and form their own country. The North could not accept this, and civil
war erupted. The North won after heavy losses on both sides.

Abraham Lincoln was the President during the Civil War. One
of the most famous of American presidents, Abraham Lincoln
is known for giving freedom to all American slaves.

1917 1918 World War I. America and its allies fought the Germans.



- 7 -
Martin Luther King
1919: American women won the right to vote. During WWI, many men
went to war and women took their place in the workplaces. Because of
this increased role in society, Congress passed a law in 1919 giving women
the right to vote.

1941 1945 World War II. The U.S. joined World
War II fighting alongside England, France, and the
Soviet Union against Germany, Japan, and Italy.

1945 1980s The Cold War. After WWII, America
and the Soviet Union emerged as the worlds two
superpowers. Their two differing and competing political ideologies
democracy and communism influenced and dominated world politics.

1961 1975 The Vietnam War. Another war against communism. The
war resulted in large numbers of Vietnamese, Lao, and Cambodians
resettling in the U.S. as refugees.

1964 Civil Rights Act. Although slavery was abolished long
ago, African Americans were treated as second-class
citizens, often segregated from white society. Led by
Martin Luther King, the civil rights movement in the 1960s
saw the African Americans battle for equality. In 1964
the Civil Rights Act was passed, which guaranteed by law
equal rights to African Americans and other minorities.

1969 Moon walk. On July 20, 1969, American
astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin became the
first humans to walk on the moon.
















- 8 -
AMERICAN HOLIDAYS

Holiday Date/Day Description Federal
Holiday
New Years Day January 1 First day of the new calendar year. Yes
Martin Luther
King Day
3
rd
Mon. in Jan. Near the birth date of famous black Civil
Rights Leader; celebrates U.S. diversity.
Yes
Groundhog Day February 2 Traditional weather folklore; if the
groundhog sees his shadow, winter will
last 6 more weeks.
No
Valentines
Day
Feb.
14
Celebrates love and romance, people give
cards, flowers, and chocolates to people they
love.
No
Presidents Day 3
rd
Mon. in Feb. Honors past American Presidents, especially
Abraham Lincoln and George Washington
Yes
Easter A Sun. in
Spring
Celebrates Christian belief in Jesus death
and resurrection. Children look for colored
Easter Eggs, hidden by the Easter Bunny.
No
April Fools Day April 1 Day when people play tricks on each other. No
Mothers
Day
2
nd
Sun. in May Honors our mothers; Americans give gifts
or flowers to their mothers, and share a
special meal.
No
Memorial Day Last Mon. in May Honors fallen soldiers.
Yes
Fathers
Day
3
rd
Sun. in June Honors our fathers; Americans give gifts to
their fathers, and share a special meal.
Independence
Day
July 4 Honors American independence. Celebrated
with picnics, parades, and fireworks.
Yes
Labor Day 1
st
Mon. in Sep. Honors Americas workers. Yes
Columbus Day 2
nd
Mon. in Oct. Honors the Italian explorer who
supposedly discovered America.
Yes
Halloween October 31 Fun celebration when children dress in
costumes and ask for candy from neighbors.
No
Veterans Day 2
nd
Mon. in Nov. Honors Americas war veterans. Yes
Thanksgiving Day 4
th
Thu. in Nov.
Celebrates harvest and family; American
families get together for a turkey dinner.
Yes
Christmas Day
Dec. 25 Celebrates the birth of Jesus; most
Americans give gifts to their family
members; story of Santa Claus.
Yes
New Years Eve December 31 Parties celebrate the passing of the old
year, and the coming of a new year.
No


- 9 -

PRE - ARRIVAL PROCESSING


There are several steps that must take place before a refugee can
depart for the United States. The whole process may take from several
months to a few years. These processes include:

Refugees register their cases with the UNHCR. A
Protection Officer listens to the refugees situation,
and determines if he or she is eligible for Refugee
Status. (Note: All refugees should register with
UNHCR regardless of whether they are qualified for
direct access.)

UNHCR sends the refugees case information to
the United States government-designated OPE which
is responsible for determining if a refugee meets the
criteria for resettlement to the U.S. If these
criteria are met, IOM presents the case to the United
States Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Or,
in some cases, refugees can be processed without a
referral from UNHCR.

DHS conducts an interview with the refugee and
determines whether or not he or she qualifies for
Refugee Status in the United States.

After the DHS interview, 4 more steps must be completed before a
refugee can go to the U.S. These steps may take place in any order, or
several may take place at the same time.








OPE (IOM)

DHS

UNHCR

- 10 -
The OPE sends information about approved cases to
the Refugee Processing Center (RPC) in Washington,
DC. Cases are allocated on a weekly basis to the ten
resettlement agencies. The resettlement agencies
sign the assurance form, and it is forwarded to the
OPE in Cairo. Refugees with immediate family in the
U.S. will usually be resettled by an agency in the
same town as their family. Sponsorship assurance
can take up to several weeks.

The names of all individuals on the case are sent to
the U.S. for security checks conducted by U.S.
Government agencies. The purpose of this is to
prevent criminals from entering the United States.
Security clearance is another step that can take up
to several months.
Refugees are also scheduled for a medical exam.
There are three primary reasons for this exam:
to identify any medical conditions that may keep
the refugee from entering the United States;
to identify medical problems that must be
treated before departure, such as malaria or
TB, which can cause long delays;
to identify medical problems that will require
follow-up care after arrival in the U.S.

After all members of the case are medically cleared,
the physician sends the medical records and
clearance notification to the OPE.







Sponsorship
Assurance

Medical
Examination


Security
Clearance


- 11 -



Once a case is approved for resettlement, all names
are sent to the Cultural Orientation Unit
with IOM. Adults and
children over the age of 15
are then scheduled for a
cultural orientation (CO) course. Cultural orientation
is an important step to complete before departure.
After all steps have been completed, the case is marked as travel
ready. IOM then arranges for the flight to the U.S. including buying
plane tickets, and helping with transit.
All of these stages of the pre-arrival process are free. If anyone asks
you for money for any of these services, report this to the management
of the program.
The Promissory Note Paying Back the Cost of the Plane Ticket
Before departure, adult refugees are asked to sign a promissory note
saying that they will pay back for the loan they obtained to buy plane
tickets, over a period of 3 years and beginning 3-6 months after arrival in
the U.S. The minimum monthly payment for a single refugee is about $35
per month. The monthly payments for couples and families will be higher.
Making timely monthly payments on this loan is one of the first steps to
creating a good credit history. A bad credit history will make it difficult
to get a loan from a bank for a house or car in the future. It is possible
to pay for your tickets in advance of travel, if you prefer.









Cultural
Orientation


- 12 -




TRAVEL TO AMERICA
You should know

Travel by air is one of the safest ways of traveling.
You need to pay for your air tickets; IOM will offer you a loan for
this or you may pay for your ticket before you fly.
There is a limit to how much luggage you can take, and restrictions
on what you can take.
You should abide by all federal laws governing air travel into and
within the U.S.; ignorance of such laws is not an excuse for
breaking the law.

______________________________________________________________
READY TO TRAVEL

Before refugees are ready to depart, they must passed security
clearance and medical check, and receive a cultural orientation session
and/or materials. Once all these steps have been taken, refugees will be
notified of their departure date. As mentioned in chapter 1, refugees
must pay for their flights to the U.S. This is done through a loan from
IOM, unless the refugee wants to pay in advance.
PACKING
How much you can take

Adults and children over the age of 2 years can take two bags, each bag
can not weigh more than 23 kilos and can not measure more than 23
inches or 58 centimeters in height, 32 inches or 81 centimeters in length
and 6 inches or 15 centimeters in width, these bags will be checked-in and
refugees will not see them until arrival in the U.S. Passengers are allowed
to bring one small bag with them on the plane. This bag should not weigh
more than 5 kilograms. Children under age 2 do not get a baggage
allowance.




- 13 -






What you can take

You can take most of the things you own with you: clothes, jewelry,
cooking utensils, musical instruments, and other items; prescription
medicine (with a note from a doctor), food that has been sterilized
(canned food, with a label in English) and processed foods (candy, chips,
etc). Refugees are also allowed to bring money into the U.S., but they
will have to declare any amount over $10,000 per family. For more details
on how much money refugees can bring into the U.S., please visit the
Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website at: www.cbp.gov/cgi-bin













- 14 -



What you CANNOT take into the U.S.

Some things can introduce serious animal or plant diseases into the U.S.
In order to protect the U.S. from these diseases, it is forbidden to bring
the items listed below into the country. You can receive a fine if you bring
in any of the following items:
live animals, rice, grains, seeds, fruits, vegetables, meats, narcotics,
weapons, ivory or any product of an endangered species. Medicine is
allowed only if accompanied by prescription from a physician in English
and packed in its original packaging (not in plastic bags as pictured)







NOTE: Even though you cannot take most food items
into the U.S., you may want to take some snacks for
your children to eat on the plane.







- 15 -

Where to pack it

Most of what you have will be packed into your 23 kg checked bags. There
are some things that you should put into your carry-on bag, and some
things that you are not allowed to put in your carry-on bag.
In your carry-on, you SHOULD pack

SWEATER OR JACKET, SOCKS, HAT (Airplanes can get rather cold.)








BOOK FOR READING, QUIET TOYS FOR CHILDREN, DIAPERS






BOTTLE FOR THE BABY, SNACKS FOR THE KIDS (Remember, you CANNOT
take these things into the U.S.; you will have to use them up by the time you
arrive, or throw them out upon arrival.)






- 16 -

In your carry-on, you SHOULD NOT pack

ANY KIND OF KNIFE OR SHARP OBJECT: Due to the recent history of
terrorism and possibility of using these things as a weapon, these are
NOT allowed.






ALL LIQUIDS, GELS, SHAMPOOS, LOTIONS, TOOTHPASTE, and
MAKEUP: the TSA (Transportation Security Administration) allows
passengers to bring on board the airplane hygienic items such as eye
drops or lotions in 3 ounces or smaller containers and packed in clear see-
through plastic bags inside the carry-on. If carried in more than 3 ounces
containers, all of these items will be banned from carry-on luggage.
Cigarette lighters and matches cannot be brought on because of the
danger of fire. For more details on what you can bring into the airplane,
please visit: www.tsa.gov/travelers















- 17 -

The JOURNEY to the USA

The trip from the Middle East to the U.S. is a very long one. In most
cases, you will fly from the Middle East into a European airport and then
you will fly across the Atlantic Ocean onto the U.S. Most U.S. bound
flights will arrive either into New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, or Miami,
and from there to the airport nearest the city of final destination (in
most cases your resettlement city). The journey may take more than 24
hours in total air travel time and you will be quite tired by the time you
arrive to your resettlement city. IOM staff will help you throughout your
journey and will ensure that you arrive at your final destination provided
that you follow directions as provide by the IOM staff.












- 18 -

Seat
Number
AT THE DEPARTURE AIRPORT
At the departure airport, IOM staff will give
refugees their tickets and a number of important
documents. These documents will be put into a plastic
bag showing the IOM logo. This bag is very important
as it contains all the documents you need to enter
the U.S. This bag is NOT to be opened as the
documents inside are sealed for protection from
fraud. Refugees may have trouble entering the U.S.
if the bag has been opened. This bag must also NOT be packed in luggage.
It is to be kept in plain view as it also acts as identification to IOM staff
assigned to assist you at various airports. Lastly, do NOT lose your bag;
you will not be able to enter the U.S. without it.
An IOM staff member will help refugees check in their bags, get through
immigration and security screenings, and assist in getting on the right
flight. At the check-in counter, you will receive a boarding pass. You need
this card to get on the plane. The boarding pass will give your name, your
flight number and destination, and will also tell you where you board the
plane (gate number), what time you board, and what your seat number is.
See the below sample boarding passes.
















Refugees will have to wait a few hours for their flight. Refugees must
stay together and parents must control their children and not allow them
to run around the airport.

Boarding
Time
Gate
Number

- 19 -


ON THE PLANE












Flight attendants: Flight attendants are there to
help you. If you need anything, ASK! If you need
water, ASK! If you need a diaper for your baby,
ASK! If you dont know how to open or close the
toilet door, ASK! Do not sit passively and suffer.

Food: Food and drinks on international flights are
free. There are set meal times and you should eat
when food is offered. You may want to bring some
food for your young children so they dont get
hungry between meals. Food on domestic flights
(those in the U.S.) is NOT free.

Drink: Many refugees arrive in the U.S. feeling
sick because they are dehydrated. That means
you need to drink plenty of liquids. Drinks are
offered from time to time by the flight
attendants. However, they offer very little and
you need to ASK for more, and more, and more.
Do not be shy about this; your health and the
health of your children depends on drinking lots of water.





Luggage: Once you have found
your seat, put your carry-on
baggage in the bin above your
head.

Seat Belts: Put on your seat
belt. Your chair is adjustable; it
must be in the upright position
for take off and landing.


- 20 -



Alcohol: On international flights, alcoholic drinks are one of the drink
options, and they are free. However, the atmosphere in a plane is very
dry and the effects of alcohol are compounded in a plane, meaning you
would get drunk much faster than normal. It is advised that refugees do
NOT drink alcohol on planes.
Exercise: Airplanes are cramped places and the flight is long. It is
actually dangerous to ones health to sit for a long period of time without
moving. It is recommended that refugees get up, stretch, and walk
around the cabin several times during the flight.
Use of Lavatories: There are several lavatories
(toilets) on the plane. A small sign next to the
door handle will indicate whether the lavatory is
occupied or vacant. Passengers should lock the
door when they enter -- this will cause the light
to turn on.

Care of Infants: Parents should bring food for their baby and a supply of
disposable diapers, enough to last through the flight. Dirty diapers
should be disposed of in the trash container in the lavatory.
If parents want baby food warmed up, they should ask the
plane crew for assistance.
Children: Parents should bring snacks for their children. It is
best to not let children sleep while waiting to get on a flight,
let them sleep on the plane. Children should not be allowed to
run in the aisles.
Change in Air Pressure: Passengers occasionally experience pain in the
ears as a result of the change in air pressure. Chewing gum or sucking on
candy, swallowing, or by holding your nose and blowing out your ears can
solve this problem. For infants, parents should give their children
something to suck on.

Changing Seats: Passengers are allowed to change seats but only after
takeoff. Refugees with infants or children can find a seat that has a
free seat next to them so the children can lie down to sleep.



- 21 -


Immigration


Motion Sickness: If you do get sick, there are bags
in the pouch on the back of the seat in front of you.
Ask for assistance in disposing of the bag after you
use it.



ARRIVAL AT PORT OF ENTRY IN THE U.S.

When the plane lands in the U.S., you need
follow the rest of the passengers out of the
plane and into the airport. An IOM staff
member will meet you and take you to
Immigration. Your I-94 card will be stamped
and you will officially become a legal resident
of the U.S. Congratulations! The I-94 card
you will receive is one of the most important
documents you now have; ensure its safe keeping. You will then go pick up
the bags you had checked. From there, you will go to Customs, where your
bags will be checked for illegal items. Dogs, chemical scanners, X-rays, as
well as a visual check are all used, so it is almost impossible to get
anything past the security screening. If an illegal item is found, and you
did not report it, you can be fined $250. All these procedures can take
many hours.
TO YOUR FINAL DESTINATION

Most refugees will need to continue to different cities after they have
arrived at the Port of Entry. In this case, IOM staff will give you your
domestic tickets and assist you in getting on your next flight. Baggage will
be checked through to your final destination. There may be a long wait;
if so, IOM staff will provide you with a meal voucher so you can get a
meal free of charge. Note that food on domestic flights is NOT free so
make sure you eat the meal provided.





- 22 -


If you must transfer a second time within the U.S., the skills you learned
in your cultural orientation class will now come into good use as there will
be nobody to help you for this part of the journey. By this time you
should know how to read your boarding pass, how to find your next flight,
and how to ask for help if you need it. Make sure you make note of the
time change and change your watch to whatever the time is on the airport
clocks. This is especially important if you need to catch an onward flight.
Do this at every airport. At your final destination, you will be met by a
representative of the resettlement agency or by your family anchor.
Keep your IOM bag in plain view so this person can recognize you. You
have arrived in your new home!!






























- 23 -

Cultural Shock:
It is normal for refugees to experience what experts in psychology
refer to as cultural shock; it is a form of anxiety that results from
cross-cultural misunderstanding and an inability to interact
appropriately in the new society. Immigrants and refugees find
themselves in a strange setting with people, who act in unfamiliar
ways; these new people communicate, interact and live their lives
according to a new set of social, cultural, legal and economic values.
Refugees often go through a period of mixed emotions during the
initial resettlement process; most refugees go through stages of
cultural adjustments described below.
STAGES OF CULTURAL ADJUSTMENT























Stage1: Honeymoon
Stage 2: Shock / Depression/frustration
Stage 3:
Recovery
Stage 4:
Balance/Adjustment/Integration
Time

Feelings

- 24 -



Suggestions for Adapting to a New Culture


Be flexible, open to change.
Take responsibility for your own life.
Get to know other new arrivals to the U.S.
Be patient, focused, and appreciate the small successes.
Establish new habits and rituals that you enjoy.
Set goals for yourself over the next six months, one year, and
five years.
Keep learning about the U.S. by observing things around you,
visiting local libraries, and learning English.
Make friends with Americans who are sympathetic and
understanding of your culture. Share your culture with others.
Be open and show a positive, cooperative attitude.
Maintain your cultural identity and embrace positive aspects of
U.S. culture.
Always keep appointments and respect time.

I. LOWER YOUR EXPECTATIONS

Many refugees come with very high expectations.
If you lower your expectations, your chances of succeeding will be
better.
Do not expect a house, television, car, etc., from your resettlement
agency.
They will provide you with the basics and it's up to you to get a job
so you can purchase the items you want later on.
Dont expect your resettlement caseworker to be with you all the
time.








- 25 -



II. The Resettlement Agencies ARE THERE TO ASSIST YOU

The resettlement agency will provide for all your needs for only 30
days.
Don't assume they will pay for your bills after that.
There may be some additional assistance but it's not guaranteed.
For most cases, it is much better to start work immediately.
The money you get from social services is never enough to cover
all your expenses. The best way is to get a job as soon as possible.
There is a lifetime limit of five years on many of the social
services. Its always better to get a job rather than depend upon
these services.


III. TAKE THE FIRST JOB

You need a job to be successful in the U.S.
You are expected to become self-sufficient as soon after your
arrival in the U.S. as possible.
People who are able to work should work rather than depend on
others.
The U.S. Government does not guarantee employment.
Most people who get a job start at an unskilled level (meaning you
don't need to have special skills or speak fluent English.)
Remember: your first job is not your last job. (You will have many
jobs throughout your life.)
Your personal initiative and skills will determine whether you find a
job that you are qualified for.
Always take the opportunity to learn new skills.











- 26 -




LAWS IN THE UNITED STATES


Refugees are entitled to the same basic human rights as anyone in the
U.S., and the same laws apply to them as those for U.S. citizens. Refugees
are required to learn and obey those laws. Some American laws may be
different from laws in refugees native country such as:

Motor Vehicles:

It is illegal to drive a car that is unregistered or uninsured.
It is illegal to drink alcohol and drive.
It is illegal to drive without a U.S. driving license.
It is illegal to drive or ride in a car without wearing a seat belt.
It is illegal for infants/small children to ride in a car without being
in a safety seat.

Smoking: It is illegal to smoke in many public places, and for minors
(under 18) to purchase tobacco.

Bribery: It is illegal to bribe police officers or other public officials.

School: Children aged 6-16 years are required by law to attend school.
School attendance is the responsibility of parents.

Childcare: It is illegal to leave children below the age of 12 years
unattended.

Drugs: It is illegal to purchase, sell, or use drugs. Illegal
drugs include marijuana, cocaine, heroin, and crack.

Physical abuse: Spouse abuse and child abuse is illegal in the
U.S. Assault is also a serious offence that can lead to jail and
even deportation.

Polygamy: It is illegal to be married to more than one person at a time in
the U.S.

American
Laws


- 27 -


Sex: It is illegal to have sex with minors. Minors are 18 years of age and
below.

Sexual harassment: Offensive comments or behavior of a sexual nature
is illegal everywhere, especially in the workplace.

Military services: All males between the ages of 18-25 residing in the
U.S. must register with the Selective Service, a government agency that
can call individuals up for military service. Forms are available at all U.S.
post offices.

Hunting and Fishing: There are laws regulating these activities, and in
most places you must have a license before you can hunt or fish.

Welfare fraud: It is important to follow the rules that govern social
services. Failure to report change in income level or family size is illegal.

Forgery: Altering documents is illegal. It can hinder ones application for
citizenship or might even lead to a jail sentence and/or deportation.

Weapons: It is illegal to own or posses a firearm without a license.

Taxes: Every employed individual must pay taxes. It is important to
inform your employer of the number of dependants you have living with
you.

Alcohol: It is illegal to purchase alcohol when under the age of 21. It is
illegal to drive a car under the influence of alcohol. It is illegal to carry
open containers of alcohol in the car. It is illegal to drink alcohol in some
public places.

Prostitution: It is illegal to engage in prostitution in the U.S.




- 28 -


RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

_______________________________________________________
You should know:

In addition to the rights you will enjoy when you resettle in the U.S., you
should remember that you also have some responsibilities.
_______________________________________________________
RESPONSIBILITIES

Obey the laws. Under the laws of the Patriot Act, refugees can be
deported for any crimes committed including small crimes such as
shoplifting.
Support yourself and your family financially.
Pay taxes.
Pay off the IOM promissory note.
Be a good citizen: make sure children go to school; pay rent and
other bills, etc.
Stay in your initial relocation site for at least 8 months, because in
your initial resettlement site your resettlement agency is obliged
to assist you. The resettlement agency will not help you move to
another city. If you choose to move, a resettlement agency in your
new city does not have to help you in any way. If you do move, ask
your resettlement agency for advice.
Whenever a non-American moves to a new house or city, they must
inform the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services
(USCIS) office in their new location within 10 days after their
move. They must send a letter to this office
stating:

1. Their name, as it appears on their I-94;
2. Their alien number (A-number);
3. Their OLD and NEW address;
4. The effective date of their new address;
5. On the outside of the envelope, clearly write:
ATTENTION: CHANGE OF ADDRESS.



- 29 -


SAMPLE CHANGE OF ADDRESS CARD
































LEGAL STATUS

- 30 -





DOCUMENT:
You are eligible for refugee status
upon arrival in the U.S. You will be
issued an I-94 card and Employment
Authorization Document (EAD) upon
arrival.

RIGHTS
Travel within the United
States
Obtain a social security card
and state I/D
Work
Attend school
Sponsor relatives for
resettlement
Obtain a drivers license
Buy property; own a business
Same human rights as all
Americans
RESTRICTIONS
Cant travel to country of origin
Cant vote or run for public office
Are not eligible for full SSI
benefits







You are eligible for LPR status after
1 year in the U.S. Permanent
Residents will have a Resident Alien
Card also known as the Green Card.

RIGHTS
Travel outside U.S. (but must
first obtain a" re-entry permit"
from USCIS)
Apply for citizenship after
fulfilling the requirements
Join the army


RESTRICTIONS
Cant hold some government
positions
Cant vote or run for public office
Not eligible for full SSI benefits
Can not travel outside the U.S.
without approval from USCIS
(refugee travel document)





Refugee
Status

Permanent
Resident Alien
Status

- 31 -

:

You are eligible to apply for citizenship after 5 years in the U.S. You will
receive a Naturalization Certificate as proof of your status.



Requirements for citizenship:
Be a permanent resident
Never convicted of a crime
Good oral / written English skills
General understanding of U.S.
government, history, and
geography
Must be a tax payer
Must have a list of all the
addresses youve lived at since
coming to the U.S.

RIGHTS

Apply for U.S. passport and
travel freely outside the U.S.
Vote and run for public office
Children under 18 become
citizens if parents are citizens
Eligible for full SSI benefits
Can't be deported
Receive protection by U.S.
embassies abroad


RESTRICTIONS

Cant serve as president or vice
president of the U.S.


DHS will stamp refugees I - 94 cards (contained in the IOM bag) upon
arrival at the port of entry in the United States. This authorized
document gives individuals Refugee Status in the U.S. After 1 year, a
refugee must apply to adjust to Permanent Resident status; the
processing time for this status might take from 6 months to 2 years
depending on many factors. After five years from the date of arrival in
the U.S., one can apply for citizenship. Refugees may not have access to
some social benefits if they choose not to become citizens.


Citizenship

- 32 -



ROLE OF THE RESETTLEMENT AGENCY


The overall goal of resettlement agencies is to help refugees become self
-sufficient as soon as possible. Resettlement agencies cover refugees
necessary and basic living costs for at least the first 30 days in the U.S.







Meet refugees upon arrival at the airport

Obtain housing and basic furnishings

Apply for a social security card

Refer to social and community services

Provide orientation on public transportation

Orient on U.S. money and how to budget

Enroll children in school

Refer to employment services

Arrange for a post-arrival health screening

Refer to ESL classes (English as a Second Language)

Teach about American laws and customs



RESETTLEMENT
AGENCIES HELP
REFUGEES:

- 33 -



TRUST YOUR RESETTLEMENT AGENCY CASEWORKER

Your caseworker is the best source of information.
Do not listen only to your friends and relatives. Remember, your
relatives might tell you only what you want to hear.
Your caseworker wants what is best for you and has a lot of
experience.
Each resettlement experience is unique and different. You cannot
compare your own experience with someone else's.
Each agency differs slightly in the way they provide assistance and
services. Services differ from agency to agency, town to town, and
from state to state.




























- 34 -



HOUSING
____________________________________
You should know

Your resettlement agency will have a place to live prepared for you;
this may be a temporary or a permanent place. There will be basic
furniture, kitchen utensils, and some food. Inexpensive housing can
be difficult to find and refugees must understand that some people
will get better housing than others.
After 30 days, you will be responsible for paying the rent and
utilities. You may qualify for assistance to pay these expenses.
Before you move into your new home, you will have to sign a lease -
a legal contract which protects the rights of you and your landlord.
All non-Americans by law must send, within 10 days, a change of
address form to the United States Citizenship and Immigration
Service (USCIS) every time they move to a new apartment, house
or city.


HOUSING AND UTILITY COSTS


Housing costs vary widely from city to city and region to region.
Landlords usually pay for water, but the tenant often pays for other
utilities, such as gas, electricity, trash removal, and telephone. Your
resettlement agency will find housing that you will be able to afford
on the wages you will earn on your first job. Americans move a lot;
You will be able to move also when you can afford to pay for your own
housing.




Costs differ from state to state and city-to-city, as well as within
cities. The source of heating or cooling energy may be gas or
electric power. Newly arrived refugees should expect to spend 40-
50% of their income on rent and utilities.

Utility costs
Apartment
Rental Costs

- 35 -




There are two parts to a telephone bill: local service
and long-distance charges. The number, duration,
destination, and time of long-distance calls determine
the costs. To reduce long distance costs, make fewer
and shorter calls, and make calls at night and on
weekends (when the rates are cheaper). Telephone
bills can become quite expensive; newly arrived
refugees who do not have much money should
try to keep their monthly telephone bill low.
Using phone cards is the most economical way
of making long distance or international calls.



SIGNING A LEASE

A lease is an agreement between the owner of the housing unit (the
landlord) and the renter (the tenant - you). The lease will describe the
terms of the rental agreement and is a legal document; once you sign it,
you must live by what you agreed to.

Before signing the lease, the tenant should:
Read and understand the document (get help if you need it!)
Check the condition of the apartment
In case of any damage notify the landlord to make repairs

The lease will identify:
Length of the rental period - one month, six months, or one year
are most common
Amount of rent, and whether or not utilities are included
Payment period - usually every month
Due date usually the first of every month
Security deposit This is money you give the landlord in advance to
insure that you do not damage the apartment or move out suddenly
without paying the rent. The deposit is usually equal to one month's
rent. You will get this money back when you move out if you do not
do any damage and if you give sufficient notice of leaving.
Landlord and tenant responsibilities: who is responsible for what

Telephone

- 36 -

Number of occupants allowed to stay in the house or apartment
Penalty that the tenant will pay for moving out before the end of
the lease
Penalty that the tenant will pay if rent is not paid on time


Landlord Responsibilities

Tenant Responsibilities

Not raising rent during the
period of the lease
Not evicting the tenant during
the period of the lease
without good reason
Providing general maintenance
Making repairs in a timely
fashion
Giving proper notice when
asking the tenant to move


Paying the rent on time
Taking care of the house or apartment
Reporting damages to the landlord
Getting permission before making
changes to the house or apartment
Giving adequate notice (usually one
month) to the landlord before moving
out
Ensuring that the number of occupants
remains within the legal limit
Being considerate of neighbors



















- 37 -
EMPLOYMENT
_______________________________________________________

You should know:

Your success in America is dependent on your own hard work and
efforts.
You will need to get a job very quickly after arriving in the U.S.
For your first job, take any job you can get. You may not need to
know much English. This is just your first step in working your way
up the job ladder in America.
English is the key to getting a better job. The more English you
learn, the easier it will be for you to get a job and the better the
job youll get.
You will need to sell yourself in a job interview, that is, let an
employer know what your good points are and how you can help the
company.
________________________________________

The need to work
In the U.S., you must find a job as quickly as possible after arrival. This is
not only because public assistance is only for a very small amount of
money and a very limited time, it is also for your own self-respect and the
respect of American society; Americans do not like free-loaders people
who live off the work of others when they are capable of working. At
work, you will learn English, make friends, and gain new knowledge and
skills, the stepping-stones to a better future.
The right attitude
The most important factor in finding a job is the right attitude.
Refugees must know that finding a job is THEIR responsibility and
nobody elses. The resettlement agency or an employment agency will help
they wont get a job FOR the refugee, but will help to look for a job
WITH the refugee. For their first job, refugees should take ANY job
they can get.
During the period you dont yet have a job, your job is finding a job -
Americans work 40 hours per week newcomers might spend 40 hours a
week in job search activities. You will need to approach looking for a job
with a positive attitude even though it may take longer than you think to
get the job you want.



- 38 -


THE JOB LADDER



Entry-Level Jobs

Require little training or experience.
Some require English, others do not.
Pay an hourly wage, usually $6.55 -$10 / hour.
Some provide medical insurance, most do not.

Examples: dishwasher, cleaner, store clerk, hotel
housekeeper, factory worker, laundry service, bakery,
warehouse worker, construction laborer.


Skilled Labor Jobs

Require formal training; may require a license or
membership in a union; licenses earned outside U.S.
usually not accepted;
Require a high level of English;
Pay an hourly wage, usually $10 - $20 per hour
depending on skill;
Most provide medical insurance, some do not.

Examples: electrician, computer technician, laboratory
technician, skilled construction, office clerks, plumber,
carpenter, mechanical or electronic repair, dental
hygienist.

Professional Jobs

Require at least a college degree,
specific skills, and advanced English;
Require a license or certification;
licenses earned outside the U.S. are
usually not recognized; additional study
and recertification will be required;
Pay is usually more than $35,000 / year
Provide medical insurance and other
benefits.

Examples: manager, lawyer, architect,
teacher, doctor, engineer, accountant,
computer programmer.

About half of all refugees find their
first job within 3 months of arrival. A
refugees first job will probably be an
entry-level job. These are jobs that
require little training or experience and,
often, little English. Even refugees with
high education and professional
qualifications will need to take an entry
level job as, most often, foreign
qualifications will not be accepted and
re-training will be necessary.


- 39 -



LOOKING FOR WORK

Two rules for job hunters

1. Apply at many companies to increase your chances of getting an
interview and getting hired.
2. Follow up on your applications with a phone call or email to let the
company know you are still interested in the job you applied for.

How to look for a job







Newspaper: Companies advertise job openings through the
newspapers in a section called help wanted or employment. There are
also special newspapers for employment. Usually very specialized jobs
or jobs for which many individuals will be hired are advertised in the
paper. Also, as many people see the ad, many people apply and
competition may be tough.
Bulletin Boards: Job announcements are often found on bulletin
boards. These can be found in supermarkets, shopping malls, community
centers, and at your resettlement or employment agency.

Yellow pages: All households with a telephone
receive a phone book which includes the business
pages, listing every business in the city. Some
companies also pay for listings in the Yellow
Pages. Look under the industry you are
interested in (for example: hotels) and you will find a list of hotels which
you may contact regarding employment opportunities.



BE ACTIVE!!
YOU HAVE TO LOOK FOR THE JOB; THE JOB WILL NOT COME LOOKING FOR YOU.

- 40 -

Internet: Ads for jobs all over the country are advertised on the
Internet and more and more jobseekers are using the Internet to find
jobs.
Direct application / walk in: Job seekers may walk into any business and
inquire about available positions.

Employment agencies: Government and private employment agencies list
job openings and help with job interview preparation. Some of these may
charge money for their services, so ask first.

Resettlement Agency: Remember, your resettlement agency is your
number one resource. One of the responsibilities of your resettlement
agency is to refer you to employment services. Many resettlement
agencies also provide employment services.

Networking: To network means to ask all friends
and relatives if they are aware of any jobs that
would be right for you. They, in turn, spread the
word to the people they know. This is one of the
best ways to find a job.























- 41 -



EDUCATION
_______________________________________________________

You should know:

Education is highly valued in the U.S. and a person will not get far without
a good education.

Parents are expected to play an active role in the education of their
children by encouraging them with their homework, meeting with their
teachers, etc.

Americans think of education as a life-long process; it is normal that
adults go to school to upgrade their skills.

Education is not free beyond public high school. If you want to continue
your higher education, you might be eligible for a student loan (normally
after one year of residency and with a good credit score). Most
university students work and pay for their tuition. Students with very
good grades and financial need may receive scholarships.
_______________________________________________________

EDUCATION FOR CHILDREN

Cost: The cost of public school education, kindergarten
through grade 12, is covered by taxes, so public primary and
secondary schools are free. Parents may need to make a
few small payments for special materials and to buy basic
school supplies.

School Enrollment: Resettlement agencies will help to enroll children in
school. Refugee children will begin studying soon after arrival, regardless
of the time of year, as long as school is in session and enrollment
requirements are met. An I-94 card, proof of residency, and updated
immunizations are needed in order to register a child in school. Your
resettlement agency will refer you to a clinic for immunizations soon
after arrival. Children are required by law to be in school from ages six
to sixteen.


- 42 -





School year: School starts in late August or early September and
finishes in late May or mid-June. The school day is usually Monday -
Friday from early morning to mid-afternoon. Hours vary widely.
Transportation may be provided if the student lives too far from school
to walk.

Curriculum: Required courses include English, math, social studies,
sciences and physical education. Other courses include art, music and
foreign languages. Many schools offer vocational education courses. Some
schools may have special English classes for newcomers. Extracurricular
activities, such as sports, are considered an important part of school.
Levels of Education:

School Age Grade

Kindergarten

5 years

K

Elementary school

6- 12 years

1 - 5
Middle or
Junior high school

12 14 years

6 - 8

High school

15 -18 years

9 -12


Parental responsibility: Parents are responsible for their children's
attendance, behavior, and performance in U.S. schools. Parents are
encouraged to become involved in their children's education, making sure
they get their homework done and meeting regularly with teachers.

School Discipline: Students who break rules may be required to do
additional homework, or stay after school. Severe punishments could
include restriction from certain activities or even suspension from school.
Physical punishment is not permitted.



- 43 -





Problems in School: Some schools have problems with youth gangs,
drugs, and alcohol use by students. Newcomers may feel pressured by
peers to become involved in these activities. If children do feel
threatened or confused, they should immediately
talk to their teacher, their school counselor, and
their parents.

American Style of Teaching: Students are
encouraged to think for themselves rather than to
blindly follow what the teacher tells them. Teachers
encourage children to learn by using analysis and
critical thinking skills, more than through rote
learning and memorization of facts. Students are
expected to ask questions and join in discussions and
activities. The quiet, obedient student will not necessarily be the most
successful.

EDUCATION FOR ADULTS

Education is a lifelong process: Changing technology and the dynamics
of globalization require workers to return to school throughout their
working lives in order to upgrade their skills and knowledge. Part-time
and evening courses are available to allow adults to work and study at the
same time. Upgrading their education is one way for refugees to advance
beyond their first entry-level jobs.

English as a Second Language: Your resettlement agency
will refer you to English classes. Initially, these classes
are free. It is considered that working in an English-
speaking environment is actually one of the best ways to
learn English.

General Equivalency Diploma (GED): Students who are too old to attend
secondary school can earn a high school diploma by passing the GED exam.
GED courses are generally inexpensive.



- 44 -



Re-certification: People who held professional jobs in their native
country will probably not be allowed to hold similar jobs in the United
States until they earn a license to work in the U.S. The re-certification
process can be expensive and lengthy. If you choose to pursue re-
certification, you will also need a job in order to pay your living expenses.

Vocational / Technical training: These programs provide
skills training for a variety of jobs, including plumbers, electricians,
beauticians, computer technicians, etc. The length of courses varies.
Usually, courses require good English and payment of tuition.

Community colleges: Community colleges offer vocational/technical
training as well as 2-year academic programs; credits from the academic
programs can usually be transferred towards a university degree. You
need to have good English to get accepted.

Colleges and universities: Colleges and universities offer 4-year
programs, which prepare students for professional-level jobs. These
institutions require a high level of English; a score
of at least 550-650 on the TOEFL test.

Financing higher education: Higher education is
expensive, but most students are able to receive
financial aid in the form of loans, work-study
programs, or through an educational grant. Consult with your schools
financial aid office.







- 45 -


HEALTH
_______________________________________________________

You should know:
For an emergency ambulance, dial 9-1-1.
You should be pro-active about your health live a healthy lifestyle to
keep yourself as healthy as possible.
You will receive one FREE medical check-up in your first month in the U.S.
Try to get all necessary immunizations and take care of any medical
problems at this check-up.
Health care in America is expensive. You will need to get health insurance
for each member of your family. Usually insurance is available through
your employer at some cost to you.


_______________________________________________________


EMERGENCY ENGLISH

If you need to call for help in
English, use one of the following
phrases:

Help!

Im hurt!

Police!

Fire!

Ambulance!

My address is: ______.

- 46 -



TAKING CARE OF YOUR HEALTH

The American life-style is fast-paced and highly stressful. After work or
school, many Americans return home to relax on the couch and watch TV.
In addition, many eat a poor diet full of meat, fats, and sugars, and
lacking in fiber and healthy grains, fruits, and vegetables. Cigarette
smoking and excessive drinking of alcohol may complicate the lifestyle.
In addition, environmental factors may harm health. As a result, the
modern diseases of a rich society - heart disease and cancer - are
common. Many Americans are grossly obese and their health is at
great danger. Even young children and teenagers are not immune
to obesity. Newly arrived refugees should be careful about their
diet, exercise, and well-being. It is recommended that all
members of the family, but especially the older members, receive
an annual check-up.

INITIAL HEALTH CARE ISSUES

Most states offer refugees one FREE medical check-up in their first
month in the U.S. Immunizations and tuberculosis (TB) preventive
treatment are commonly provided at this time. Immunizations are
required for children entering school and for adults when they apply for
permanent residency status. Some employers require a health check-up
including a TB test before allowing a person to start work.
MEDICAL COVERAGE FOR NEWLY ARRIVED REFUGEES
Medicaid

Newly arrived refugees are eligible for a government-sponsored program
called Refugee Medical Assistance (RMA) during their first 8 months in
the U.S. The actual name of the medical program may vary from state to
state; it is commonly called Medicaid. Resettlement agency staff will
assist the refugee in obtaining this benefit shortly after the refugees
arrival.




- 47 -
Medical benefits vary from state to state, and your program may not pay
100% of the medical bill. Programs usually do not cover dental work or
eye care.
Medicare

Medicare is government-sponsored coverage for people 65 and over and
for some disabled people under 65. People can be covered under
Medicare for many years. Medicare may not pay 100% of a medical bill.


Health Care Coverage after the Initial 8 Months

The actual cost of health care is very expensive, and few people can
afford to pay the entire cost of their own medical care. As such, most
people rely on some type of insurance plan to help cover their medical
costs. Insurance plans differ from state to state, but all plans have rules
that govern what is covered under the plan and where one can go to
receive treatment. One should never be without medical insurance; a
short trip to a hospital can cost several years wages. In general, there
are three types of plans:
Private Health Insurance: Individuals pay money to an insurance
company each month to receive coverage; if the person falls sick,
the insurance company will pay the medical bills. This type of
insurance can be very expensive around $800 per month for a
family. Many employers pay for part or most of the health
insurance for their employees; newcomers should try to find a job
that includes health care coverage.
Government Sponsored Programs: There are a number of federal
and state government-supported programs with different eligibility
requirements. Each state has its unique programs, mostly to assist
individuals who may have difficulty getting private insurance. It is
up to the refugee to find out what is available.
Hospital or Clinic-based Programs: In some places, health care is
provided at little or no cost through local hospitals or community
clinics for individuals who do not have health insurance.






- 48 -
Medications

There are two types of medications available at a pharmacy: (1)
prescription drugs and (2) over-the-counter drugs. To buy a prescription
drug, you need to first see a doctor and get a prescription for the
medicine. These drugs are expensive, but the cost is partially covered by
most health insurance plans. Over-the-counter drugs are those that do
not require a doctors prescription. These medicines are seldom covered
by insurance. All medicines should be taken exactly as indicated and all
medicines should be kept out of the reach of children: improper use can
be dangerous.

HEALTH CARE OPTIONS

Public Health Department: Provides immunizations. Services to
refugees may be free or very inexpensive.

Community Clinics: Provide many medical services. Clinics accept private
insurance and Medicaid, or charge according to the patient's ability to
pay.

Private Doctors: Provide general and specialized medical services, and
are often expensive. Insurance coverage or pre-payment is usually
required. Some doctors do not accept
Medicaid.

Hospitals: Doctors or clinics refer patients
with special problems to hospitals for
laboratory tests and surgery. Hospital
services are expensive. Insurance coverage or
proof of payment is usually required. Some hospitals do not accept
Medicaid.

Emergency Rooms: Located in hospitals. Emergency care is usually
provided regardless of patient's ability to pay, but treatment is
expensive. Emergency rooms should be used only when absolutely
necessary.

Ambulance Services: Provide transportation and medical assistance to
people who are in need of emergency medical care. Ambulance services
are very expensive and should be used only when absolutely necessary.

- 49 -

911: In case of an emergency dial 911 on your phone and tell the
operator (1) your name, (2) your address, and (3) the type of emergency.
People who don't speak English should simply say AMBULANCE, FIRE,
or POLICE and then remain on the telephone. Your call will be traced to
your address.

Dental Care: Provided through private dentists and clinics. Services are
expensive. Free or low-cost dental services are rare but may be available
through the public health department or community clinics. Many
insurance plans do not cover dental care.

Mental Health Care: Provided by private doctors, therapists, and clinics.
Mental health services and counseling may be available through mutual
assistance associations. Some resettlement agencies provide counseling
services, or can refer refugees to other mental health services.

SOME THINGS TO REMEMBER

Many clinics and hospitals are required by
law to provide interpretation. Some are
not. Ask about interpretation when you
make your appointment.

Health care providers expect clients to
be on time. Use calendars to remind
yourself of these appointments. If you
cannot keep the appointment, call ahead
to cancel and reschedule.

If you do not feel comfortable talking to a male doctor, ask if
there is a female doctor that you can see instead, or vice versa.

Prepare for your doctors appointment by bringing any medications
you are taking, as well as your Medicaid or insurance card, and any
medical records you have.







- 50 -




COMMUNITY SERVICES


SOCIAL SERVICES

During the first month in the U.S., the resettlement agency will assist
refugees in applying for federal or state-funded social services.
Programs vary from state to state, county to county, city to city, or even
from site to site. Examples of social services include:
Food Stamps
TANF Temporary Assistance for Needy Families
RCA Refugee Cash Assistance
SSI Supplemental Security Income (for the elderly, disabled, or
blind)
Medicaid
Medicare
WIC: Women, Infants and Children (a supplemental nutrition
program for pregnant mothers and children up to the age of 5)
CHIP: Child Health Insurance Program

Refugees are advised to comply with rules and regulations governing
provision of such services. In order to continue to receive TANF and
RCA, refugees must be actively involved in job search activities or attend
ESL or job training classes. (Proof of attendance is required by social
services in many states.)

Refugees can also access other community services including: public
library services, Head Start, after school programs, as well as
recreational and religious services in their community.






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TRANSPORTATION

Your resettlement agency will provide orientation to the public
transportation available in your community.
There are often different ways of paying for transport, from
buying a monthly pass (cheaper) to buying a single ride. Often
exact change is required. Some tickets may resemble an electronic
debit card. Students, children, and senior citizens may qualify for
reduced fares.

Car ownership and responsibilities: Many refugees want to learn
how to drive, get a valid drivers license, and purchase a car.
Driving is essential in some locations while some city dwellers never
own a car. Owning a car requires insurance. Liability for an accident
can be very expensive for you and for any other person injured or
car damaged.















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Credit Card


BUDGETING AND MONEY MANAGEMENT

_______________________________________________________

You should know

The cost of living in America is expensive, and initially you will not
have a lot of money to spend.
You will need to have a plan for paying for all of your expenses, for
ways to earn more money, and for ways to spend less money.
Using credit cards can result in a dangerous financial trap, putting
people into serious debt. Avoid getting a credit card until you are
able to manage your finances.
Your resettlement agency will assist you with budgeting and
financial management planning.
_______________________________________________________

Consumer society

In the U.S. there will be a million things for you to buy, each one
professionally marketed and possibly very desirable. Things that you
have been able to live without suddenly seem to become a necessity.
Having things is also a sign of success. Buying things without careful
thought and planning, however, can lead to financial problems.






Credit Cards

Many Americans borrow money, through the use of credit cards, to buy
goods; you buy now and pay later. Credit cards make it easy to buy all
sorts of things. Problems may start, however, when it comes time to pay
for these things; if you cannot repay your debts on time, you will have to
pay interest on the money you borrowed; the interest for credit card
loans is very high. It is advisable, then, NOT to get a credit card before
you have a regular income and are able to make payments on your debt.
Failure to make credit card payments can lead to penalties, a poor credit

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rating which will lead to even higher interest rates, and the possibility of
the lender taking legal action to take the goods you bought away from
you. It will also make it difficult for you to get a loan if you want to buy a
car or a house. Before you accept a credit card make sure you understand
the terms and conditions. Compare cards, as conditions and interest
rates or fees vary, and do not be pressured into any agreement without
getting advice from someone you trust.

MONTHLY EXPENSES

Your resettlement agency will work with you to create a monthly budget.


BANKING AND PAYING BILLS

Americans keep their money in banks, primarily because
this is safer than keeping cash in your home. Money
received from government programs is often
transferred directly into your bank account so it is
important for you to open an account soon after your
arrival. Many employers also pay their employees
salaries directly into bank accounts. To open an account, you must provide
proof of your identity and address. Your resettlement agency will help
you choose and open a bank account.

Some bank services include:

Direct deposit: your paycheck is deposited directly to your bank.
Pre-authorized bill payments: payments for regular expenses
(phone, utilities, etc) are deducted automatically from your
bank account every month.
ATM (Automated Teller Machine): you can make deposits and
withdrawals any time of day or night with your ATM card at
any bank machine.
Direct Debit purchases: With a direct debit card, the cost of the
things you buy is deducted directly from your account.
Safe Deposit Box: for a small fee, you can rent a locked box in the
bank for keeping your valuables and important documents.






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A Check


Paying Bills
Telephone and utility companies issue
regular bills with a due date by which the
payment must be received. It is
important that you make those payments
on time. If you dont pay on time, you
may need to pay a penalty and your
service may be disconnected. Most bills
can be paid at the service company
office, by check sent through the mail,
at some banks and post offices, through
pre-authorized bill payments, or through the internet using a credit card.
WHERE TO SHOP

Supermarkets
Supermarkets sell food and many household items. Something is always
on sale so you dont always need to pay full price. Many supermarkets,
or grocery stores, sell ethnic or specialty food items.
Ethnic food stores
Asian food stores are common in most cities; Asian refugees will most
likely be able to find the foods they know from home. Prices are usually
reasonable.

Department stores
Large stores sell clothing, furniture, appliances, hardware, shoes, and
other non-food items. Some department stores are called discount
stores; they arent as fancy as regular stores, but items will be cheaper.
Shopping malls
There are large malls in every town in America. Each mall has
dozens, to hundreds, of stores, selling the same things that
department stores sell. Malls are usually quite fashionable
and items are not generally cheap. Discount malls are full of
discount stores.



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Thrift shops
These shops sell used clothing, furniture, appliances, and
other household goods at cheap prices. Many Americans
enjoy shopping for unique items at thrift shops.
Yard sales, rummage sales, or garage sales
When people want to get rid of things they have in their house,
they put up a Garage Sale sign on the street. Prices are usually
very low and bargaining is acceptable. Yard sales are great
places to buy childrens clothes and other things for kids. Yard
sales are most common when the weather is good and are a social
occasion as much as they are for making money.
Classified ads
People advertise things they want to sell in the classified ads of local
newspapers. These include used cars, furniture, pets, TVs, and just about
anything else. Prices are usually reasonable and bargaining is acceptable.
KEEPING COSTS DOWN

Food and groceries
Shop at supermarkets rather than at convenience stores;
Buy items that are on sale and use the discount coupons
offered by most supermarkets;
Buy no-name, generic, or the supermarkets own brand;
Read product weights and labels carefully; compare prices
and sizes. Usually, larger sizes are cheaper.

Housing
Rent a cheaper apartment in a less convenient location. If you are
single, share an apartment with someone. Public housing may be
available, but difficult to get, and there may be waiting lists for
several years.
Keep the windows closed when the heat or the air conditioner is on;
You pay for electricity and water; dont waste them.

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Second hand items
Americans are not shy about buying second-hand goods. You can buy just
about anything, from used clothes to furniture and cars, at a fraction of
the price of new goods. Check the want ads of newspapers,
second-hand stores (Salvation Army, Red Cross, Brotherhood,
St. Vincents), or attend a Garage Sale. These sales are very
popular in summer; you will see signs put up on the streets.

Telephone
The prices of long distance phone calls vary widely depending on the time
of the call and the company you use. Compare prices and services before
you spend your money.

Transportation
When using public transportation buy a weekly or a
monthly pass if you use it every day; its cheaper
than buying tickets every day.

Sending money to relatives back home
At the beginning, you will barely have enough money to support yourself.
You should strongly consider whether you can afford to send money to
relatives back home.

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A FINAL WORD

The process of adjusting to life in the United States can take a long
time; you may need 5 years or more before you begin to feel that the
U.S. is home. Maintaining a positive, non-judgmental attitude may be the
most important thing you can bring toward this challenge. It is also
important to have realistic expectations and to set goals for your life in
the U.S. Lastly, the qualities of cooperation, patience, and respect will
help you live in the U.S. as much as they would in any part of the world.
May your life in the U.S. be enriching and fulfilling.