Information Access
MECC seeks to provide and navigate resources to support refugees’ and immigrants’ resettlement and basic needs. This could include employment resources, housing, utilities, food, education, government assistance, etc. This goal is to ensure that the population can access resources and that they are equitably allocated and distributed. MECC will coordinate care to ensure the resources are well utilized.
Social Integration
MECC will support the social integration of immigrants and refugees through a cross-cultural lens. MECC will provide opportunities for immigrants and refugees to learn basic living and independence skills to navigate living in America successfully, provide ESL classes to learn the English language and assimilate through culture and language. Additionally, MECC will provide opportunities to integrate socially with local communities through excursions and events organized in Houston, Texas. MECC. MECC believes that assimilation is most appropriate for refugees and immigrants. Assimilation refers to how they adapt to a new culture, language, and societal norms while maintaining aspects of their original identity. This often involves learning a new language, adjusting to new laws, and understanding social expectations in their host country. However, assimilation can be a complex and emotional, requiring a balance between integrating into the new environment and preserving cultural heritage. Successful assimilation fosters inclusion, economic participation, and community stability while enhancing mutual respect between diverse populations.
Mental Health
Providing mental health services to refugees and immigrants can significantly improve their overall well-being by addressing the trauma, anxiety, and depression often associated with displacement, acculturation, and migration experiences. It helps individuals process the psychological effects of the hardships that brought them to the United States, such as war, persecution, family separation, and cultural adaptation. Access to mental health care supports resilience, emotional stability, and better integration into new communities, improving their quality of life and capacity to thrive in their new environment. It also fosters a supportive and inclusive community atmosphere as they are well-adapted and adjusted in Houston, TX. Mental Health Services could include individual therapy by a qualified mental health provider, group psychosocial sessions, psychoeducational sessions, assimilation support, and training. MECC will focus specifically on building healthy marriages and parenting.
Interpretation Services
MECC will provide interpretation services for refugees, immigrants, and the larger society. These services seek to close the language barrier this population faces, which often prevents them from accessing services and integrating successfully with the larger community. MECC will also provide a paid service to other businesses, non-profits, universities, government agencies, and mental health services that request interpretation to support this population better.