Bridge Refugee Services
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Bridge Refugee Services is the East Tennessee affiliate of Episcopal Migration Ministries, the refugee resettlement service of the Domestic and Foreign Missionary Society. It is an ecumenical 501(c)3 nonprofit agency, operating in Knoxville and Chattanooga, and is committed to providing protection and assistance in refugees’ inspiring journey "from despair to dignity". We recognize their plight, resilience and willingness to join our community and make it their own.
You all are also welcome to become part of America's proud tradition of welcoming refugees and come join us as we work together, building lives in a new land.
Welcoming refugees to East Tennessee since 1982.
Volunteer opportunities
Bridge Refugee Services works in partnership with the community partners, congregations, and volunteers to carry out its work welcoming refugees to Chattanooga.
From providing space for English or job skills classes, to mentoring refugee children, practicing English skills with parents, assisting single mothers with childcare, or accompanying a family on their first trip to an American grocery store, opportunities abound for you and your congregation to make a positive impact on the life of a family and on your wider community.
Contact Marina Peshtarianu, associate director of Bridge Refugee Services, at mpeshtarianu@bridgerefugees.org for more information.
Ministries
Resettlement Services
With support from Episcopal Migration Ministries, Bridge Refugee Services provides services for newly arriving refugees to help them put down roots in their first months in the United States. This includes securing and fully furnishing an apartment for an arriving family; picking up an arriving family at the airport; and ensuring a culturally appropriate meal awaits the family at their new home, right when they arrive. Food is provided for the family until they can provide their own food; seasonal clothing and footwear is provided for each member of the family (including diapers for infants & toddlers) upon arrival. The family is assisted in applying for assistance and services for which they are eligible; each member of the family receives a health assessment. Children are enrolled in school and adults are enrolled in English and cultural orientation classes. Work-ready adults receive employment services and assistance in applying for and securing a job.
Employment Services
With support from Episcopal Migration Ministries and the Matching Grant program of the Office of Refugee Resettlement (Department of Health and Human Services), Bridge Refugee Services offers extended employment services to clients, ensuring they will successfully secure employment to support their families and become financially self-sufficient.
Long-Term Support Services
Employment programs, training, financial literacy, and job placement services
Intensive Case Management
Intensive support for refugees with special medical and mental health needs
4791 Hal Drive, Suite A
Chattanooga, TN 37416
United States
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