Navigating Resources: A Guide for New African Immigrants and Refugees in Oregon

As immigration policies in the U.S. shift, many African immigrants and refugees in Oregon are facing a time of uncertainty. This guide provides essential resources and support to help navigate this complex period, ensuring the topic is clear from the outset. For those arriving through asylum, family reunification, or humanitarian programs, the path to stability has become even more complicated.

Oregon has welcomed immigrants and refugees from across the African continent. Cities like Portland, Gresham, and Beaverton have seen growing communities that bring culture, strength, and resilience. However, even with Oregon’s supportive policies, it can still be challenging to locate the necessary services and information to establish a new life.

New arrivals often face language barriers, limited social connections, and a lack of awareness of local programs. At the same time, national immigration policies are creating concern for many families about their future, their rights, and their ability to stay together.

A Growing Community Facing New Challenges

Local organizations across Oregon have seen a steady increase in African immigrants and refugees seeking assistance. Many are trying to rebuild their lives while navigating complex systems they have never encountered before.

Support is available, but it can be challenging to access. Affordable housing is limited. Legal assistance is in high demand. And many services still lack proper translation, cultural understanding, or outreach to African communities.

This guide is here to make things easier. It connects you with trusted programs, local organizations, and helpful tools so you can find what you need. Whether you are searching for housing, healthcare, legal support, or job opportunities, this guide was created with you in mind.

You are not alone. Support is available, and this is a good place to start.

Finding a Home: Your Shelter in Oregon

One of the biggest concerns for many new arrivals is finding safe and affordable housing. In cities like Portland, rent prices have increased significantly in recent years, making it challenging to find a stable place to call home. Some families spend weeks or even months in temporary housing while they search.

The good news is that there are programs in Oregon that can help with rental assistance and housing support. These organizations work with immigrants and refugees, and many understand the specific needs of African families:

• Home Forward (serving Multnomah County)
• Northwest Pilot Project
• Catholic Charities of Oregon

Please note that these programs often have waiting lists, particularly for larger households. Still, it is worth reaching out to learn about your options and get on a list early.

When searching online, try using terms like “how to find housing for Oregon refugees” or “affordable housing for African immigrants in Portland.” These phrases can help you find websites and services that cater to your specific situation.

Legal Support: Understanding Your Rights

Understanding immigration paperwork can feel overwhelming. Whether you are applying for asylum, renewing your visa, or helping family members join you in Oregon, it’s essential to have the proper legal support.

Getting help from a trusted legal advisor can protect your immigration status and give you access to essential benefits like work permits and protection from deportation.

Here are two organizations in Oregon that offer free or low-cost legal help to immigrants and refugees:

• SOAR Immigration Legal Services
• Catholic Charities of Oregon

These groups work with people from many backgrounds, including African communities. They can help explain your rights, guide you through forms, and represent you in immigration cases if needed.

Please know that these services are in high demand and often have waiting lists. Many families are also looking for help, and there are not enough legal advisors who speak African languages. Still, it’s essential to reach out and ask how to get started. If they cannot assist right away, they may refer you to other helpful programs.

Search tip: Try looking online for “immigration legal services Portland” or “legal help for African immigrants in Oregon” to find more support near you.

Jobs and Opportunity: Building Your Future

Finding a stable job is one of the most critical steps in building your new life in Oregon. We know that many newcomers arrive with skills, education, and work experience from their home countries. But starting over in a new job market can be difficult, and sometimes discouraging.

You may need to begin with entry-level work while learning English or adjusting to U.S. hiring systems. That’s okay. What matters most is taking the first step, gaining experience, and knowing you are not alone.

Here are trusted organizations that can help you with job training, resume support, and employment connections:

• WorkSource Oregon – Offers free employment services across the state
• IRCO’s Workforce Programs – Focuses on helping immigrants and refugees build careers

Common challenges include understanding job applications, preparing for interviews, and finding reliable transportation. Learning English also takes time and patience. These are real obstacles, but there are also people and programs that want to help you succeed.

Many immigrants in Oregon also find work through local community networks, churches, or cultural groups. Others go on to start small businesses and become self-employed, something that is encouraged and supported in many areas.

Search tip: Use phrases like “job help for African immigrants in Oregon” or “refugee employment programs Portland” to explore more options online.

Education and Language: Learning and Growing

Learning English is one of the most critical steps in building your confidence and independence in Oregon. It can open doors to various opportunities, including jobs, education, and everyday communication.

English as a Second Language (ESL) classes are available at:

• Portland Community College (PCC) – Offers beginner to advanced ESL programs
• Local public libraries – Many libraries offer free conversation circles or beginner classes

These classes are often free or low-cost, but spaces can be limited. Try to sign up early and ask if there is a waiting list.

For families with children, Oregon’s public school system provides education from kindergarten through high school. Children often adapt quickly, especially when surrounded by other students and engaging in daily English practice.

However, many African parents find it challenging to communicate with teachers or understand how the school system works. There is a growing need for bilingual staff and cultural liaisons in schools with large immigrant and refugee populations.

If you are having trouble with school paperwork, report cards, or parent-teacher meetings, don’t hesitate to ask for an interpreter or talk to a school counselor. Your involvement matters, and schools want to work with you.

Search tip: Use keywords like “ESL classes in Oregon for immigrants” or “education support for African families in Portland” to find more programs online.

Strong Communities: Where You Belong

Even with all the challenges of starting over, your community is a powerful source of strength. Many African immigrants and refugees in Oregon find comfort and a sense of connection through community organizations, churches, and cultural groups.

These spaces offer more than just services. They provide a sense of belonging. Whether you need mental health support, youth mentoring, financial education, or simply someone who speaks your language, the community can be a lifeline.

Here are a few trusted community organizations working with African families in Oregon:

Search tip: Try phrases like “African community organizations in Oregon” or “refugee support groups Portland” to find more local programs.

• Sudanese Development Community in Oregon – Provides support for Sudanese immigrants through cultural outreach, education assistance, and community-building efforts.
• Somali American Council of Oregon – Focuses on civic engagement, advocacy, and youth development
• Ethiopian Community of Oregon – Offers cultural programs, family support, and resource referrals

No matter where you’re from or how long you’ve been here, you belong. You are not alone, and together, our communities grow stronger.

A Final Word

For African immigrants and refugees in Oregon, settling in is about more than paperwork. It is about finding safety, connection, and dignity. Building a new life requires strength, and every step forward is a significant achievement.

While support is available, it is not always easy to access. That is why trusted information, welcoming communities, and clear guidance are so important.

We believe that when community leaders, service providers, and new residents work together, Oregon can become more than a place to start over. It can be a place where everyone has the chance to grow, succeed, and truly belong.

You are not alone. You are part of something bigger. And your journey matters.
The African Community Development Center is always here to support you throughout your journey.