Imagine trying to send a payment for your electric bill, but you do not understand the concept of a check, know how to buy a stamp, or where to mail it. Imagine trying to tell the doctor about your health conditions and you can’t speak English.

IRC provides these needed cultural and linguistic services to the Somali, Ethiopian, Eritrean, and Sudanese communities residing in Santa Clara County. Through the East African Social Adjustment Program, clients can receive assistance from a case worker to help them access basic services and perform daily tasks which may seem daunting to newly arrived refugees. IRC is able to provide transportation to for refugees to health appointments and have an interpreter to ensure they receive proper medical attention. The Social Adjustment case manager helps clients learn how to use public transportation by teaching them to read a map, pay the fee, and where to get off on the route. These critical social adjustment services enable new arrivals to receive the services they need and eventually enjoy true self-sufficiency in San Jose.