ORI’s mission is to promote the full participation of refugees and immigrants as self-sufficient individuals and families in the economic, social, and civic life of Massachusetts. Eligible groups include: Afghan and Iraqi Special Immigrant Visa Holders, Amerasians, Asylees, Cuban/Haitian Entrants, Human Trafficking Victims, Legal Permanent Residents, and Refugees.

The Program to Enhance Elder Refugee Services (PEERS), which is part of the Massachusetts Office for Refugees and Immigrants, supports collaboration between refugees and elder service organizations. These agencies work together to ensure elder refugees (aged 60 and over who are not yet U.S. citizens) have access to the vital services they need but are often unable to access due to cultural or linguistic barriers. Services include care management, senior center programs, transport escort services and other services. All services are designed to meet specific needs of refugee elders such as providing ethnic food in Meals on Wheels programs, organizing social support groups or sponsoring health education workshops and activities.

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