 |
|
|
| |
The bi-lingual counselor at Interact serves, on average, 3 Hispanic families a day. |
|
|
|
|
Asylee/Refugee/Immigration
Wake County has a growing population of immigrants. Interact’s services to immigrants, refugees, asylees, and Hispanics have increased tremendously in the past year. According to the United Nations Commissioner for Refugees, in 2000, there were 22,257,340 individuals who were unable or unwilling to return to their native countries due to a well-founded fear of persecution. The United States of America is one of the countries that give these individuals protection. According to the U.S. Census Bureau 2000 Census Summary File 3, there were 60,602 immigrants, refugees, and asylees in Wake County. Interact seeks to address the specific needs of battered immigrants, refugees, asylees, and Hispanics.
Interact collaborates with Lutheran Family Services and Area Services Programs (private mental health agency) in that many immigrants, refugees, and asylees from Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and beyond with domestic violence issues are referred. Interact also works with Wake County Human Services/Mental Health, Centro Para Familias Hispañas, and Culturas Unidas for referrals of Hispanic clients. With all of these agencies, cross training is provided to insure effective response to these clients. We will also partner with existing social groups, religious groups, and businesses patronized by these populations. These collaborative relationships are vital to connecting these clients with support structures that are culturally sensitive and foster a safe environment.
|
