What is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word “refugee?” Polling data released by the USA for United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees found that the “public is largely unaware of the scope of the international refugee crisis and where the needs are greatest.”
Although we often hear about the public’s opinion on refugees, we seldom hear about the daunting process newcomers endure upon arrival, and about how they acclimate to a completely foreign culture.
The International Institute of Buffalo (IIB), one of four resettlement agencies in the city, has been serving the local refugee community since 1918. The IIB offers a plethora of services in order to properly and adequately resettle newcomers, some of it helping them find sufficient housing and jobs. According to the IIB’s director of development and communications, Adair Saviola, many refugees work in local hospitality and manufacturing industries.
People are also reading…
Beyond home and job placement, the IIB also helps integrate refugees into the community through its Welcoming Buffalo program. Operating in four neighborhoods, Welcoming Buffalo grows community ties by uniting refugees with American-born citizens, helping to bring neighborhoods together. “You’re looking at people as individuals, not just a group with a name attached to it,” Saviola said.
IIB also helps celebrate refugees’ diverse cultures by throwing the annual Buffalo Without Borders, an event that highlights food, art and performances.
The IIB is also known for its large language services department, as one of the most difficult hurdles refugees face is the language barrier. The IIB strives to equip newcomers with legitimate language access through interpretation and translation services. It also provides services for victims of human trafficking and domestic violence.
Saviola emphasized the importance of celebrating Buffalo’s vibrant community.
“Buffalo is a product of the last wave of immigrants from the 1850s — I think when you see the difference in many communities, such as the economic surge because of the influx of refugees, you see the positive differences they make.”