Community Support is Vital to Refugee Success:
Legally resettled refugees contribute to the enrichment of San Antonio, becoming dependable employees and reliable neighbors who contribute positively to the diversity of our community.
Refugees are Legal:
They fled their homes due to war, violence, and religious and ethnic persecution.
Located in the Heart of the Refugee Community:
The Center for Refugee Services assists thousands of legally resettled refugees every year with the help of a small group of paid staff members and many additional monthly volunteers.
How We Help:
Historically, refugees received limited short-term assistance through resettlement agencies upon arrival. However, many needs continue well beyond this initial 6-12 month period.
The Center for Refugee Services was established to provide long-term, community-based support that helps refugees rebuild their lives in San Antonio.
Our ongoing services include English as a Second Language (ESL) classes, job readiness support, health and wellness resources, and referrals to a wide network of community partners.
Legal Refugee Process
Coming to America Legally
STAGE 1
Conflict Erupts
“Conflict” may involve:
- wars
- terrorist attacks
- pervasive gang violence
- political oppression
- persecution based on:
- race
- religion
- nationality
- political opinion
- membership in particular social groups
STAGE 2
Migration Occurs
Individuals or families flee homes to survive and in search of safety:
- “Internal migrants” move to a safer area within their own country
- “Asylum seekers” flee to a different (often neighboring) country
STAGE 3
Status Applications Are Made
In a new country, the person or family may ask to be recognized as an “asylum seeker” by the host government, or apply to the United Nations for refugee status.
Countries which provide the majority of resettlement include the United States, Canada, Australia and the Nordic countries.
STAGE 4
Refugee Status Is Granted
A person becomes a “refugee” when they are granted asylum or status within the U.N. Under the U.N., refugees may be permanently re-settled in a third country, which they do not get to choose.
For refugees approved to come to the U.S., rigorous screening is done by multiple U.S. agencies including: Department of State, USCIS (screens via FBI, Dept. of Homeland Security, Dept. of Defense), and Resettlement Support Center.
In addition, medical screening and approval is conducted, transportation loans to the U.S. are provided and must be repaid, U.S. Customs and Border Protection conducts additional background checks at ports of entry.
2020 Accomplishments
In summer 2020, because of COVID-19, CRS reduced its hours of operation for 3 months and re configured service operations to ensure the safety of clients and staff members/volunteers. October 2020, services resumed usual days/hours, M-F, 10am – 3pm, except for on-site classes.
