our impact
According to the latest data provided by the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), more than 108 million people worldwide are currently displaced. With the help of volunteers, donors, and partners, IINE is doing our part to support thousands of refugees and immigrants as they seek new lives in New England.
Our work includes
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Unlocking and delivering federal and state benefits for which immigrants and refugees are eligible but cannot receive without an organization like IINE.
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Advocating for streamlined processes, expanded support, and more equitable treatment of all refugees and immigrants at the state and federal level.
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Free financial literacy and ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) classes.
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Partnerships with community groups that support resettlement.
2023 in
Numbers
refugees and
immigrants served
immigrants prepared to
enter the workforce
adults received English-language instruction
immigrants received immigration
legal services
Connecting immigrants to life saving support
The vast majority of individuals receiving services in the past year have come here from Haiti, where political turmoil, natural disasters, water scarcity, famine, and widespread gang violence have displaced millions. Many put their hopes in the U.S. and set off on a long and perilous journey, and for tens of thousands, Massachusetts is their final stop — and their new beginning. Here they join the third largest Haitian diaspora in the U.S.
Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, IINE has welcomed and served more than 700 Ukrainians, helping them to obtain cash assistance and medical benefits, secure housing, enroll in ESOL courses, and enter the workforce. IINE has also supported thousands of Afghans since August 2021 as they make new lives for themselves and their families in New England.
IINE provides life-saving support to these families by unlocking and delivering federal and state benefits (including food, healthcare, and housing support) for which they are eligible and cannot receive without the help of an organization like ours.
Expediting immigrant entry into our workforces
Immigration law is complex. IINE advocates for increased state and federal funding to expedite immigrant entry into our workforces, lobbying regularly to improve and expand services that support the stabilization and integration of families with so much to offer our community and economy.
By helping hundreds of refugee and immigrant families to integrate into their communities, we create a stronger, richer, and more diverse culture and society in New England. Our clients also play an important role in the economy, contributing far more over time than they ever receive in initial support. As Massachusetts’ number of jobs grows at a much faster rate than our workforce, refugees and immigrants are critical to the expansion of our economy as they join the U.S. workforce, contribute to the local and federal tax base, purchase homes, and start businesses.
Our theory of change
Our work is guided by a systematic approach that enables us to articulate our vision for change, define desired outcomes, and strategize the necessary steps to achieve them. It serves as a roadmap, illuminating the relationships among our services and the needs of the population we serve.
Welcome
Newly arrived refugees fleeing conflict and persecution are offered housing, basic services, and a warm welcome to help them adjust to their new community.
Education
English language classes and financial literacy courses create a foundation for future social, civic, and economic success.
Career Advancement
Job placement and the development of hard and soft skills through targeted training enables refugees and immigrants to earn a steady income while building pathways to careers.
Civic Engagement
Immigration legal assistance empowers refugees and immigrants to build roots, contribute to their communities, and support their families.
Vision
Refugees and immigrants start strong so that over time they can thrive, fulfill their dreams, and contribute to New England’s growth and prosperity.