About New Arrivals and Migrants. Who are New Arrivals?

The term “migrants” describes people who have left their home country or region to settle in another place, whether temporarily or permanently.  When people come to the United States, society tends to categorize them based on their status. This is an oppressive and often racist practice. 

In working to dismantle systemic racism, we call migrants or people who have left their homes to migrate to a new country or region, “new arrivals.” We try and use the term “new arrivals” to emphasize their recent arrival in a new location over their immigration status.

We strongly encourage that we adopt the term “new arrival” instead of “migrant.” For the purposes of this information, we will use both terms as they are most common.

How Safe Horizon is Supporting New Arrivals and Migrants

As the need for support in the migrant community grows, Safe Horizon is dedicated to being there for new arrivals with all our services. Our services are available for new arrivals regardless of their immigration status. 

We help new arrivals in NYC get help and resources through our Immigration Law Project (ILP). We offer NYC new arrivals legal consultations and collaborate with partner organizations to hold information sessions so they can learn about immigration options, resources, and referrals. Prioritizing cultural sensitivity and accessibility, we also provide “Know Your Rights” presentations in English and Spanish.

For new arrivals who are young people and experiencing homelessness, we provide resources and services through our drop-in centers and crisis shelters at Streetwork Project. Recognizing the diverse needs of our clients, we provide translators to assist those who do not speak English. We organize mini-clinics to help them apply for essential documents like NYCID and emergency medical insurance NYC Care, connect young people to resources such as ESL classes and other educational opportunities to help them build a brighter future. 

To ensure homeless migrant youth feel seen, we provide culturally sensitive services and resources such as prayer rugs for them to take or keep onsite for their use and incorporate culturally diverse dishes into the meals we serve. We engage young new arrivals who speak English to co-facilitate groups on topics such as sexual health and substance abuse. 

How You Can Help New Arrivals and Migrants in New York City

Safe Horizon remains committed to supporting new arrivals, ensuring that they feel welcomed, supported, and empowered as they navigate their new lives. As the need for help skyrockets, please consider supporting our work with young new arrivals across the city. 

Donate to Support Safe Horizon Services

It’s critical that we show up to provide support and resources for new arrivals to help them feel safe in their new environment. Support New York City’s new arrivals, migrants, and young people by donating today. Your contribution provides critical resources to those in need.