Center for Refugee Services

Center for Refugee
Services is an independent, grassroots 501(c)(3) nonprofit in San Antonio,
Texas. Founded in 2010, we promote the self-sufficiency and community
integration of legally resettled refugees with an emphasis on health and
wellness, educational support and employment.

Today, CRS assists over 500 families each month by providing
social support services, including English classes, maternity education,
health/medical referrals, college applications, appointment scheduling, and
assistance with HHSC applications for Medicaid and SNAP.

CRS receives no government funding and is solely supported
by grants from foundations and private donations. Your support helps us assist
our clients as they become independent and integrated members of our community. 

Who We Are

CENTER FOR REFUGEE SERVICES is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit agency established in 2010. Our mission is to facilitate the successful community integration of legally resettled refugees in San Antonio, TX, with emphasis on health and wellness, educational support, and employment.

Over 10,000 legally resettled refugees reside in our city many of whom live in the North West Medical Center area. Refugees are individuals who have fled war and genocide and have received protection from the United Nations. Prior to resettlement in the US and other countries, refugees undergo extensive security background checks. Countries of origin include Bhutan, Burma (Myanmar), Afghanistan, Iraq, D.R. Congo, Somalia, Sudan, Eritrea, Syria, Iran, and others. As legal residents refugees are eligible to apply for US citizenship in 5 years.

Our CRS programs focus on cultural instruction to promote independence and self-sufficiency. Prior to COVID-19, our classes included English instruction, US Citizenship, tutoring and homework help. All classes and groups were temporarily suspended during the pandemic. As of summer 2021 we hope to start small classes once again! We offer college scholarships to graduating high school seniors and to re-entry college adults. Maternity support programs provide baby beds, diapers, and baby clothing to newborn infants. CRS programs are operated by 10+volunteers and we serve over 250 refugees per month. CRS needs your help to provide scholarships, learning materials, and operational expenses.