Help for Immigrants in Cincinnati.
Immigrant resources in Cincinnati help people start new lives in a new place. Programs provide support to adults, children, and families. Assistance includes finding housing, getting jobs, learning English, mental health services, and legal help.
Job, Career, and Financial Immigrant Resources
Heartfelt Tidbits Job Readiness Program
513-394-6765
Contact
Free
Services: Job readiness, money services, English, citizenship, kids services, and community support.
Santa Maria Community Services
513-557-2700
Contact
Free
Services: Life coaching, kids’ development, money assistance, education advancement, and job training.
Social Services and Community Support
Catholic Charities Southwestern Ohio
513-241-7745
Free and Fee
Services: Housing, job readiness, food pantry, legal services, and kids mentoring.
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Health Care Resources
The HealthCare Connection – Cincinnati Cares
(513) 554-4100
Free
Services: Refugee Health Screenings, including medical, dental, and behavioral health.
Legal Help
AILA Ohio Chapter
202-507-7600
Fee Services
Represents U.S. families seeking permanent residence for close family members.
Immigrant and Refugee Law Center
202-276-2363
Free Services
Provides access to critical legal services to immigrant and refugee families in the Greater Cincinnati area to help create a more welcoming, safer, and stable community.
Legal Aid Society of Cincinnati
513-241-9400
Fee Services
Assists immigrants who have been victims of family violence, human trafficking, or other crimes to obtain stable immigration status.
Ohio Legal Help
614-285-6710
Fee Services
Provides legal information, self-help tools, legal resources, and lawyer referrals.
Related Article: Help for Pregnant Women and Mothers
Cincinnati Black Immigration Lawyers
Samuel O. Ezenagu
Law Office of Samuel Ezenagu
917 Main St., 45202
[email protected]
513-977-4223
Free Beginner English as a Second Language Classes
View the full list of free and low-cost Hamilton County ESOL and ESL classes. Online options are also available.
Cincinnati Public Library English Language Learners (ELL) Programs
Free Services
Services: English classes, tutoring, and resources for non-native speakers.
Cincinnati State ESL Classes
Free Services
Services: English classes for speaking, listening, reading, writing, and grammar usage.
USA Learns
Free Services
Services: Free online English courses.
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Know Your Rights During ICE Raids
Immigrants have rights no matter their immigration status. During ICE raids, there is no need to talk to officers or let them into your home unless they show a warrant signed by a judge. Ask to see the warrant through a window or under the door. Ensure the warrant has the correct name, address, and a judge’s signature.
If ICE tries to question you, you have the right to stay silent. You can say, “I am exercising my right to remain silent.” Do not sign any papers before talking to an immigration lawyer. Keep emergency phone numbers for legal help handy.
For more information, visit: Know your rights: Advocates help prep migrants for stepped-up enforcement | WVXU
Sources:
- Know Your Rights with ICE – Immigrant Defense Project
- Immigrants’ Rights in Interactions with Law Enforcement | ACLU of DC
Becoming a US Citizen
Becoming a legal citizen of the United States through naturalization involves several steps.
General Overview
- Determine Eligibility: Ensure you meet the eligibility requirements, such as being a lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder) for at least five years (or three years if married to a U.S. citizen), being at least 18 years old, and having good moral character.
- Prepare Form N-400: Complete the Application for Naturalization (Form N-400). Gather the necessary documents to support your application.
- Submit Form N-400: File your application with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and pay the required fees.
- Biometrics Appointment: If applicable, attend a biometrics appointment to have your fingerprints taken.
- Interview: Attend an interview with a USCIS officer. During the interview, you will be tested on your knowledge of U.S. history and government (civics test) and your ability to read, write, and speak English.
- Receive a Decision: USCIS will notify you of its decision. You will receive a notice to take the Oath of Allegiance if approved.
- Take the Oath of Allegiance: Attend a naturalization ceremony where you will take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States. After taking the oath, you will receive your Certificate of Naturalization, officially making you a U.S. citizen.
Sources
Explore and share these immigrant resources within the community to ensure no one navigates challenges alone. Together, building a welcoming, inclusive environment is possible.
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Immigrant Resources image provided by Adobe Stock.
