Local refugee resources for Austin, Texas
Refugee Services of Texas – Austin
Community Resources – Life-giving support
Refugee Services of Texas (RST) is one of the largest nonprofit organizations that assists refugees and asylees with resettlement and other services. They generally aid refugees for 3 months from when they initially arrive. During this period, refugees are expected to find employment, but that does not always occur. Asylum seekers are expected to apply for asylum status before they can work. They are not eligible for federal benefits such as housing, Medicaid, or food stamps until granted asylum. Other local resources available for refugees and asylum seekers include the City of Austin, Casa Marianella (shelter and support services), Interfaith Action of Central Texas, and Multicultural Refugee Coalition (employment). In addition, the Austin Stone Community Church is a large network (average 7,500 weekly attendance) and has active immigrant/refugee support programs.