VDSS Office of New Americans

R E F U G E E_A N D_I M M I G R A N T_S E R V I C E S

 
 
 
 

Highlights

International Migrant Day

Annual Richmond Mental Health Conference for Refugee and Immigrants

DMAS Language and Disability Access Forum

DECEMBER 2024 NEWSLETTER


Welcome to the Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) Office of New Americans (ONA) monthly newsletter providing you with ONA updates, immigration news, community resources, training webinars, local events, and more.


ONA is comprised of an Immigrant Services unit and Refugee Services unit. The Office is responsible for the implementation of a statewide strategy to provide immigrants in Virginia with comprehensive assistance related to employment, housing, healthcare, education, citizenship, and other services.

 

International Migrant Day Celebrated on December 18th


As we approach International Migrants Day, we reflect on the resilience and contributions of migrants in our communities. This day, established by the United Nations, serves as a reminder of the human rights of migrants and the need for humane, sensible migration policies. In Virginia, we recognize the vital role migrants play in our economy and cultural fabric. We encourage our stakeholders to participate in local events, share migrant stories, and advocate for inclusive policies that support migrant integration and well-being.

Annual Richmond Mental Health Conference on Trauma Informed-Care and Prevention for Refugee and Immigrants

Hosted by DBHDS and ONA on December 5, 2024


The Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services and the Office of New Americans are pleased to invite you to the Annual Regional Mental Health Conference on Trauma-Informed Care and Prevention for Refugee and Immigrants, scheduled for December 5th, 2024, in Richmond, VA. This important event brings together health and mental health professionals, resettlement agencies, community leaders, school staff, interpreters, community health workers, community organizations and advocates to address the unique mental health needs of refugee and immigrant populations. The conference will feature expert speakers, interactive workshops, and networking opportunities to enhance our understanding and improve support services. Registration is now open - mark your calendars and register today!

DMAS Language and Disability Access Forum


The Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS) is hosting its second forum on Language and Disability Access in the 2024 series on Tuesday, December 3rd, 2024, from 1 PM to 3 PM. This online event aims to engage agencies and community organizations in addressing the needs of individuals with limited English proficiency (LEP) and people with disabilities. The forum will feature a panel discussion on "Building Language and Disability Access Plans" providing valuable insights on implementing effective access strategies. To Register HERE

FEMA Disaster Recovery Center


FEMA has established Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) in Virginia to assist those affected by recent disasters. These centers provide valuable in-person support, offering one-on-one assistance with applying for federal disaster aid, understanding FEMA letters, and accessing various recovery resources. Whether you need help with your application, have questions about your case, or want to learn about disaster preparedness, the DRCs are here to help. Disaster survivors can visit any DRC to receive assistance. To find the DRC closest to you, including addresses and hours, visit FEMA.gov/drc or text DRC and a ZIP code to 43362.

 

Promoting your organization's services, educational webinars, or community events? We would love to help spread the word! Please reach out to liliana.penalver@dss.virginia.gov to share your initiatives and ensure that Virginians have access to valuable resources and events. Together, we can enhance awareness of resources and strengthen support for New Americans in Virginia!

 

Federal, State, and Local News

 

CMS Health Insurance Marketplace Open Enrollment Period


CMS announced the start of the Health Insurance Marketplace Open Enrollment Period on Healthcare.gov. Open enrollment runs from November 1, 2024, to January 15, 2025. Consumers who enroll by midnight December 15 can get full-year coverage that starts January 1, 2025. Consumers who enroll after December 15 but before the deadline on January 15 will have coverage that begins February 1, 2025.


 

DACA recipients able to apply for Health Insurance through ACA


Starting November 1, 2024, DACA recipients will be eligible to enroll in private health insurance plans through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplaces, including HealthCare.gov. To assist with this process, the National Immigration Law Center (NILC) has created a resource titled "Frequently Asked Questions: Affordable Care Act Eligibility for DACA Recipients." This guide offers essential information on eligibility, enrollment, and potential income-based subsidies.

 

Community Resources

 

VIRTUAL TRAININGS

& WEBINARS

Instructor-Led Certificate Course: Enhancing Services for LGBTQ+ Newcomers

Switchboard

Dec 3rd, 2PM 


International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2024

Equality and Inclusion Unit, University of Leeds

Dec 3rd, 9AM


Your Rights as a Tenant

Edmonton Community Legal Centre

Dec 4th, 8PM


How to Prevent Pesticide Poisoning in Farmworkers: Three-Part Webinar Series

Migrant Clinicians Network

Dec 5th, 1PM

*Webinars in English with simultaneous Spanish interpretation


Know Your Rights: Immigration Law & Navigating the Future

Katsivalis & Anderson Law

Dec 5th, 1PM


Trauma Informed-Care Interpreter Training

Latinos in Virginia Empowerment Center

Dec 5th and 12th, 5PM

*Only for practicing and qualified Interpreters. Proof of at least 40 hours of basic interpretation training or experience required upon registration.


International Humas Rights Day: Immigration law and policy in review from 2024

Health Human Rights Initiative

Dec 10th, 2 PM


ISHR Human Rights Day 2024 Webinar on “Equality”

ISHR

Dec 10th, 9AM


Anti-discrimination protections for workers granted asylum, refugee status, humanitarian parole, and SIV

U.S. Department of Justice

Dec 11th, 2 PM


Introduction to Trauma & Trauma Informed Care

Greater Richmond SCAN

Dec 11th, 1PM


IER Training for Employers & HR Professionals

U.S. Department of Justice

Dec 12th, 10AM

*Participants will learn about the law IER enforces, including how to avoid employment discrimination based on national origin and citizenship status.


Human Trafficking and Online Safety: The Basics

CATE

Dec 13th, 12:30PM


The CARE of Substance Use and Mental Health Disorders in Primary and Integrated Care Services for Hispanic Communities

Hispanic and Latino Behavioral Health Center of Excellence

Dec 17th, 12PM


Unaccompanied Refugee Minors Affected by Substance Use

Switchboard

Dec 18th, 2PM

Did you know that Greater Richmond SCAN offers expert consulting services to help organizations create trauma-informed and healing-centered environments? Their specialized approach is designed to transform how organizations care for their staff, clients, and community members. Whether you're a school, healthcare provider, non-profit, or business, Greater Richmond SCAN can help you integrate trauma-responsive practices tailored to your specific needs. If you're looking to enhance your organization's approach to trauma and healing, Greater Richmond SCAN's expertise could be a valuable resource.

The ILRC’s Immigration Preparedness Toolkit is a resource-packed informational document designed to help immigrants with no legal status or in mixed status families begin to understand the immigration legal landscape and plan for their own journey through an ever-changing, complex system in the United States. This free toolkit offers in-depth, yet easily accessible information that outlines the basics about a variety of topics.

Spanish and English versions available.

The Virginia Community Health Worker Association (VACHWA) is looking for candidates to join the Ambassador Program. This program offers leadership and workforce development opportunities for Community Health Workers, aiming to elevate the diverse skill sets within the CHW profession. The Ambassadors serve as a bridge between healthcare providers and community members, often working in underserved areas to ensure that everyone has access to essential health services. If you're ready to make a difference, apply today!

The Cultural Validation and Translation Review Toolkit (2024), developed by CARRE and the International Rescue Committee (IRC) with support from key partners, is a vital resource for organizations seeking to create culturally responsive and linguistically accurate materials. It offers practical guidance, including templates and case studies, to implement effective cultural validation processes. By prioritizing these practices, organizations can enhance communication and trust within diverse communities, ultimately improving outcomes for refugees and immigrants.

The Virginia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with LISC Virginia, has launched the Hispanic Small Business Loan Program/ Programa de préstamos para pequeños negocios Hispanos to support Central Virginia's Hispanic business community. This program offers 0% interest loans ranging from $15,000 to $75,000 to help businesses grow, hire staff, and purchase equipment. As loans are repaid, funds will be recycled back into the community, promoting sustainability. Additionally, recipients will receive free coaching from the Virginia Hispanic Chamber to enhance their long-term success. For more information on eligibility and applications, visit the Virginia Hispanic Chamber's website.

We would like to share an important resource for immigrant-serving organizations: The Red Cards from the Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC). These cards are designed to help individuals assert their rights and defend themselves, regardless of immigration status. They provide essential information about constitutional rights protected under U.S. law. By increasing awareness of these rights, the Red Cards serve as a vital educational tool for communities, enabling individuals to better understand their protections and assert themselves in various situations. The ILRC can arrange to order and ship cards to you for free. Cards are available in 17 languages.

 

Upcoming Events

Citizenship tutoring
Woman dancing in cultural festival wearing bright orange dress
Adult assisting children at community garden
 

NORTHERN VIRGINIA


15th Virginia Immigrant Advocates Summit

VACOLAO

Annandale United Methodist Church

6935 Columbia Pike Annandale

Dec 6th, 8AM - 5PM


Transforming Communities Conference & 18th Anniversary Celebration

CAF

Lubber Run Community Center

300 North Park Drive Arlington, VA

Dec 12th, 4PM - 7PM


Free Enrollment Help

Enroll VA

Central Library, Historic District, 8601 Mathis Ave, Manassas, VA 20110

Dec 18th, 4PM - 7PM


SOUTHWEST VIRGINIA


Radford VEC Health Enrollment Assistance

Enroll VA

51 A W. Main St Radford

Dec 6th, 10:30AM - 2PM


Facilities Investigation Training (FIT) DBHDS

Southern Virginia Mental Health Institute

382 Taylor Drive Danville, VA

Dec 10th, 9AM - 4 PM


REVIVE Train-the-Trainer (Trainer of Lay Rescuers)

Roanoke City VDH & DBHDS

1502 Williamson Road Northeast #2nd Floor

Dec 12th, 10AM - 12PM


2024 Old Time Appalachian Christmas Festival

Galax Tourism

North Main Street Galax

Dec 14th, 12PM - 6PM


EASTERN SHORE & HAMPTON ROADS


Sixth Mount Zion Vaccine and Enrollment Clinic

Enroll VA

Sixth Mount Zion Baptist Temple, 3100 Butternut Drive, Hampton, VA

Dec 6th, 10AM - 1PM


Legal Resources for the Latin Community

Willians DeLoatche,P.C & Gardner Mendoza,PC

4700 George Washington Hwy, Portsmouth, VA Dec 14th, 10:30AM to 12:30PM

Register by Dec 6th call Abdhie 757-900-9294


Human Services at the Hampton Public Library

Hamptons Public Library

4207 Victoria Boulevard Hampton, VA

Dec 18th, 2:30PM

Meet with a representative to learn about federal and state benefits. Free & open to the public - Eligibility requirements apply.



 

SHENANDOAH VALLEY


Mental Health First Aider training

Harrisonburg Rockingham CSB

1241 N Main St, Harrisonburg

Dec 11th, 8:30AM - 4:30PM


CENTRAL VIRGINIA


Housing Conditions Clinic

Legal Aid Justice Center

1200 West Washington St, Petersburg

2nd Tuesday of the Month, 1PM-4PM


Free Legal Services Will Clinics

The VCU Health Hub

1330 N. 25th Street, Suite A , Richmond

Dec. 5th, 1PM - 4PM

Registration Required. For more info & to register, contact the VCU Health Hub at (804) 628-6401


Holiday Fair

Richmond Waldorf School

1301 Robin Hood Road Richmond

Dec 7th, 2PM


Latino Hub (Community Services by appointment only)

Latinos in Virginia Empowerment Center

9513 Hull Street Rd, Suite B, N Chesterfield

TANF, Medicaid, SNAP, Community Tax Law Project and more. Call for appointment and more info 804 -658-3341.


Bilingual Conversations meetups

OIRE Office of Immigrant and Refugee Engagement

Southside Community Services Center

4100 Hull Street Rd.

Every Friday, 11:30AM - 12:30PM (Except Holidays)

This event is appropriate for those with conversational levels of Spanish and English. Questions? Contact brandie.cartier1@rva.gov


Clinicas Legales de Casos de Familia

Latinos in Virginia Empowerment Center

9513 Hull Street Rd, North Chesterfield

Dec 10th, 2PM to 5PM

Regístrese gratis. Llame al 804-658-3341.


Open enrollment assistance Event

Enroll VA & CVLAS

Petersburg Public Library

201 W Washington St, Peterburg

Dec 14th, 10AM - 3PM


Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) Training

Behavioral Health Wellness Team

Montpelier Recreation Center and Library

15302 Clazemont Rd. Hanover

Dec 17th, 7PM


Clínica Gratuita de Vacunación para Flu y Covid-19

Sacred Heart

1400 Perry St, Richmond

Dec 18th, 4PM to 7PM

 
ONA Refugee Resettlement
 ONA Immigrant Services 
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FURTHER LINKS & INFORMATION


2-1-1 Virginia

American Immigration Council's data on Immigrants in Virginia

2022 VCU Study: Barriers to Integration of Virginia's Immigrants

ONA Statewide Resource Handbooks

Find a Free Clinic in your region