Lincoln refugee settlement organization prepares for increase in new arrivals

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — A refugee settlement organizations in Lincoln is busier than ever as it expects a higher number of refugees.

Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska has helped resettle about 100 refugees in each of the last few years.

But Poe Dee, refugee resettlement director, said the agency is preparing for 200 this year.

“We increased the staff, too, to prepare for that,” he said. 

Dee said the number of new arrivals depends on the different conflicts happening around the world. 

He said welcoming refugees is a collaboration between nonprofit and government agencies.

“We increased the staff, too, to prepare for that,” Dee said. 

A refugee himself, Dee said it is hard to settle in a new community. 

“I came from Burma in 2009, and then throughout the process, I stayed, helping refugees in the community,” he said. 

Dee said most arrivals come from Ukraine and Afghanistan. But others also come from Central America and Asia. 

But welcoming Lincoln’s new residents comes with some challenges, especially housing.

Dee said landlords often require things that refugees don’t have, like a credit score and a Social Security number.

If you’re interested in helping welcome these new residents, you can donate or volunteer at organizations like the Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska.