Happy Spring from the Office of Ombudsperson for Families!
 Refugee and Immigrant Helpline
The Refugee and Immigrant Helpline is a new service that connects callers to information, resources and supports in communities across Minnesota.
Helpline navigators value callers’ privacy and provide guidance people can trust. Here are ways that navigators can help you:
- Connect people with resources and information about jobs, food, health, housing, legal help, English classes and more.
- Provide referrals to Resettlement Network Services.
- Answer any question on a caller’s mind—or help figure out where to start.
Navigators are available to help in multiple languages, including:
- English
- Russian
- Spanish
- Ukrainian
Interpreters who speak more languages are also available. Callers can say their preferred language, and the navigator will connect an interpreter to the call. You can reach the helpline by calling 1-800-814-4806, or by emailing DHS.RPO.Helpline@state.mn.us.
Check out the full library of resources for newcomers to Minnesota and read more information on the helpline website through the Minnesota Department of Human Services.
African Immigrant & Refugee Suicide Prevention Information
Members of the community met on Wednesday, March 12, to discuss African Immigrant and Refugee Suicide Prevention. The goal of this meeting was to discuss the youth suicide crisis and strengthen collaborative action for community well-being. Read the fact sheet compiled by Restoration for All, Inc.
This meeting was co-presented by the Minnesota Department of Health, Progressive Individual Resources, Inc., Afrocare Services Consultancy, Equitable Development Action, and the United Resilience Coalition. It was the result of community outreach done by the Cultural and Ethnic Communities Leadership Council (CECLC), through the Department of Human Services, in late 2024 - read more about the CECLC.
Read the full story on the OBFF website.
I-35W Bridge Lit for Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Month
The I-35W bridge will be lit to celebrate Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Month in Minnesota on Sunday, May 4, at 6:00pm. AANHPI Month was celebrated federally during the month of May in the United States and recognized the influence and contributions of the AANHPI community. 2025 will mark the first time in 33 years that the United States has not acknowledged or recognized AANHPI Heritage Month and the valuable contributions of the AANHPI community on the national level.
Upcoming Events at the Capitol
Latino Day at the Capitol on April 24
Save the date for Latino Day at the Capitol on Thursday, April 24, 2:00 - 4:00pm! All are welcome. This event is sponsored by the Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs.
Asian Minnesotan Day at the Capitol on April 30
Join the Coalition of Asian American Leaders (CAAL) for Asian Minnesotan Day at the Capitol on Wednesday, April 30! This event is an opportunity to connect with your elected officials and discuss the priorities that matter to your community. The event is 8:30am - 1:30pm, with doors opening at 8:00am. Register online in advance.
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