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Refugee and Entrant Assistance - Wilson/Fish Programs


The purpose of the Wilson/Fish Alternative Program is to provide integrated services and cash assistance to increase refugees (and other Office of Refugee Resettlement populations) prospects for early employment and self-sufficiency. The program also aims to reduce their level of welfare dependence and promote coordination among voluntary resettlement agencies and services providers.

The purpose of the Wilson/Fish Alternative Program is to provide integrated services and cash assistance to increase refugees (and other Office of Refugee Resettlement populations) prospects for early employment and self-sufficiency. The program also aims to reduce their level of welfare dependence and promote coordination among voluntary resettlement agencies and services providers.


In order to qualify for this benefit program, you must be a refugee who was granted asylum and is now a U.S. citizen. You must also be of Amerasian, Cuban, or Haitian heritage, or a victim of trafficking.


The Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) currently funds 13 Wilson/Fish programs that operate throughout twelve states: Alabama, Alaska, Colorado, Idaho, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Nevada, North Dakota, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont, plus San Diego County, and California.


For more information please visit the Wilson/Fish program site.