Refugee Health & Wellness Program
Refugees face many difficulties related to health and wellness as they adjust to resettlement in the United States. CRIS’ Refugee Health & Wellness Program provides intensive case management services to refugees facing significant physical and mental health challenges.
This program aims to assist clients with achieving self-sufficiency by addressing their identified areas of vulnerability. We do not provide in-house services but have close relationships with community providers that are able to comprehensively address clients’ needs.
*This program is not able to accept outside referrals at this time*
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Outdoors Connection Group
Members of our Health & Wellness team recently hosted a unique small group focused on pursuing well-being through connection with nature. Read about the origin, purpose, and outcomes of this unique group.
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Sewing Groups
Group sewing classes are one facet of the CRIS Health & Wellness program, providing a sense of community and teaching practical skills to build holistic well-being. Read the story of how one woman’s life changed through these classes.
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Brief Therapy
We are excited to announce that brief therapy sessions are now available to CRIS clients. Read Clinical Lead Kyri Shaffer’s thoughts on this therapy model, her goals for offering it to clients and the value it can bring, along with the unique challenges for clinicians in meeting the needs of refugees.
Eligibility
This program serves individuals who have been granted an ORR eligible status within the past five years.
Program Services
This program offers a wide range of services to address the complex physical and mental health needs of the populations we serve, including but not limited to…
Wellness Activities: The CRIS Refugee Health and Wellness Program periodically offers alternative wellness activities based on community needs and interests. Past activities have included Community Adjustment Support Groups, yoga and fitness sessions, therapeutic music, sewing and knitting classes, and local park outings. The Refugee Health and Wellness Program has collaborated with a range of local partners to offer health education sessions for community members focused on dietary nutrition, navigating the healthcare system, and self-care.
Provider Outreach and Education: The Wellness Program engages in ongoing provider outreach in the greater Columbus area. We also provide training on a range of topics including cultural competency, addressing the health and wellness needs of diverse populations, and informational sessions on the newly-arriving refugee populations in Central Ohio. If you are interested in one of our trainings, please email your request to Cat Gossman.
Have questions?
Contact us today.
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Cat Gossman
REFUGEE HEALTH & WELLNESS PROGRAM MANAGER