Main Office: (408) 556-0600 | Aging & Caregiver Services (408) 806-6231
Refugee Resettlement and Immigrant Services
in Silicon Valley
Jewish Family Services of Silicon Valley (JFSSV) helps refugees and immigrants rebuild their lives through housing, employment, education, and community integration programs. Discover how local organizations and agencies in Santa Clara County are creating pathways to safety, stability, and opportunity for newcomers in Silicon Valley.
Introduction to Refugee Resettlement
What Resettlement Means
Refugee resettlement is a humanitarian process in which individuals and families who have fled persecution, war, or violence are given the opportunity to rebuild their lives in safety.
In the United States, resettlement operates under the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP), which screens applicants overseas before arrival. Once admitted, refugees receive community-based support for housing, employment, education, and integration.
Organizations such as Jewish Family Services of Silicon Valley (JFSSV) play a key role in delivering these services, ensuring that refugees are placed in safe housing, receive orientation, and are connected to vital resources to become self-sufficient.
Why Refugees Come to Silicon Valley
Silicon Valley attracts refugee and immigrant families because of its diversity, community support systems, and established service infrastructure.
Local agencies provide assistance with housing, employment, legal status, education, and healthcare — helping newcomers build long-term stability.
Organizations such as JFSSV and the International Rescue Committee (IRC) San Jose are recognized leaders in regional refugee resettlement and integration.
Key Support Services Available
Housing Assistance Programs
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Finding affordable housing is one of the greatest challenges for newcomers in Silicon Valley.
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JFSSV helps refugees secure both temporary and permanent housing, enroll in benefits, and connect with programs that promote long-term stability.
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Health and Mental Health Support
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Many refugees arrive with urgent medical or emotional needs.
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JFSSV assists with access to medical care, dental services, and mental health counseling, and helps clients with insurance enrollment and provider coordination.
Employment & Job Placement Support
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Employment is essential to self-sufficiency.
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JFSSV provides job training, career counseling, vocational ESL, and employer connections to help refugees enter the workforce.
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The IRC San Jose complements this by offering career development, job readiness, and financial empowerment programs for new arrivals.
Legal Assistance for Immigration
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Local nonprofits and county agencies provide free or low-cost immigration legal aid, covering asylum, work authorization, citizenship, and family reunification.
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JFSSV connects clients with trusted legal service providers and helps with required documentation and paperwork.
English Language (ESL) and Education Services
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JFSSV offers vocational English language training (VESL) focused on workplace communication and job readiness.
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Additional support includes school enrollment help, tutoring, and referrals to local adult education centers.
Financial & Basic Needs Support
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JFSSV operates an on-site food pantry, provides financial assistance for essentials, and helps families access public benefits to ensure immediate stability during resettlement.
Eligibility and Application Process
Who Qualifies for Refugee Services
Individuals may qualify for refugee support if they are:
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Refugees (admitted under USRAP)
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Asylee's
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Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) holders
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Other humanitarian entrants eligible for ORR-funded programs
Documents and Requirements
Typical documents needed for enrollment include:
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I-94 Arrival/Departure Record showing refugee or humanitarian status
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Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
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Identification documents
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Immigration paperwork issued by USCIS or ORR
English Language (ESL) and Education Services
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JFSSV offers vocational English language training (VESL) focused on workplace communication and job readiness.
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Additional support includes school enrollment help, tutoring, and referrals to local adult education centers.
How to Apply for Support
Newly arrived refugees are often connected to local resettlement agencies upon arrival.
Those moving into the region independently can contact:
Jewish Family Services of Silicon Valley (JFSSV): (408) 806-6231
Agencies verify eligibility, complete assessments, and help clients enroll in available programs.
Challenges Faced by Refugees in Silicon Valley
Housing Costs
High housing costs make it difficult for new arrivals to find affordable places to live. Refugees may face challenges like limited income or rental history.
Job Market Competition
While Silicon Valley has abundant job opportunities, refugees often need language training or skills retraining to match local market needs.
Cultural and Language Barriers
Cultural adaptation and language learning can be significant hurdles. JFSSV and other agencies address these through ESL classes, cultural orientation, and ongoing case management.
How the Community Can Help
Donating Essentials
Community members can contribute household items, food, clothing, or financial donations. JFSSV’s food pantry and family assistance programs rely on community generosity.
Volunteering Opportunities
Volunteers can assist with tutoring, mentoring, transportation, cultural orientation, and housing setup for arriving families.
Supporting Local Organizations
Financial donations, corporate partnerships, job opportunities, and advocacy strengthen Silicon Valley’s refugee support system and expand available resources.
Conclusion – Building a Supportive Future for Refugees and Immigrants
Refugees and immigrants contribute greatly to the cultural, social, and economic growth of Silicon Valley.
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Organizations such as JFSSV, IRC San Jose, and numerous community partners ensure access to essential programs that promote self-sufficiency and inclusion.
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Continued community support, advocacy, and collaboration are vital in keeping Silicon Valley a region where new Americans can thrive, grow, and build prosperous futures.
Seeking Assistance, or Ready to support refugees in Silicon Valley?
Partner with Jewish Family Services of Silicon Valley or donate to help newcomers find stability, safety, and belonging.
Refugee Resettlement, Immigrant Services Silicon Valley CA | Jewish Family Services Silicon Valley
A subsidiary of JFS Silicon Valley