Announcement
For more than 40 years, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) in New Jersey has supported refugees, asylees, asylum seekers, and immigrant families in building safe, stable, and self‑sufficient lives. In Fiscal Year 2025 (October 2024–September 2025), IRC New Jersey served 4,669 newcomers across Union, Essex, Bergen, and Hudson counties, responding to rising needs driven by global displacement and shifting U.S. immigration policies. You can learn more in the IRC New Jersey Annual Report: Fiscal Year 2025
IRC New Jersey delivered comprehensive, holistic services throughout the year, including resettlement and case management, immigration legal services, economic empowerment, mental health and wellness education, youth and adult education, and federally funded cash assistance. Over the past two years, the IRC New Jersey served more than 8,700 people, including 1,257 youth, and distributed $18.6 million in critical cash assistance to individuals and families experiencing crisis.
Beginning in January 2025, changes to federal immigration policies led to widespread legal and economic instability, particularly related to loss of work authorization. These shifts resulted in a sharp increase in demand for immigration legal services, financial support, housing assistance, and case management, as well as an unexpected rise in returning clients. IRC New Jersey responded by adjusting programs mid‑year, expanding legal and financial coaching services, and launching the Client Voice Initiative to strengthen client‑informed service delivery.
Key FY25 highlights include:
- 670 clients served through immigration legal services, including legal consultations, Know Your Rights trainings, and assistance with work authorization, status adjustment, and fee waivers
- More than 2,600 clients supported through economic empowerment services, including job readiness, employment placement, career pathways, financial literacy, and access to asset‑building loan products
- 500+ youth served through education case management, tutoring, mentoring, and the Newcomer Youth Summer Academy
- 840 adult learners participating in English language instruction across 65 classes, alongside digital literacy and workforce‑focused education
Despite escalating challenges, IRC New Jersey continued to provide stability, advocacy, and pathways to self‑sufficiency for thousands of newcomers. Looking ahead, service demand is expected to remain high, with more than 1,500 clients projected to return for services in FY26 as families continue to navigate legal and economic uncertainty.
👉 For questions about the IRC's local work in New Jersey, please email: newjersey@rescue.org