Columbus OH
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Resources for All Immigrants

American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Immigrant Health Toolkit

This toolkit was designed to provide practical information and best practices for pediatricians treating immigrant children, youth, and families. Toolkit topics include clinical care considerations, treatment recommendations, access to resources and public benefits, unique stressors, and more.
(800) 433-9016
aap.org/en/patient-care/immigrant-child-health

Asian American Community Services (AACS)

Supports Asian American and Asian immigrant communities in Ohio. They focus on East, Southeast, South Asian and Pacific Islander communities but assist individuals regardless of ethnic or racial background. Healthy Asian Youth (HAY) provides after-school and summer programming for low-income families. They offer free or low-cost classes for adults for ESL, Citizenship, and cultural arts. They also offer a Family Support Program for victims of crime, Senior citizen outreach, and interpreting and translation services. The Asian Health Initiative (AHI) provides free, culturally and linguistically appropriate services and health screenings for those living under 250% of the Federal Poverty Level.
4700 Reed Road, Columbus, Ohio 43220
(614) 220-4023
aacsohio.org

City of Columbus Neighborhood Pride Centers

Neighborhood Pride Centers are one-stop shops to access city services in one place. Neighborhood Liaisons serve as a direct link to city services to help address neighborhood issues and help Columbus neighborhoods thrive. They can help residents find programs for New Americans, sanitation services, supportive services for families, job fairs, community events, and more.

  • West Side: 1186 West Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43222
    (614) 935-6375
  • South Side: Reed Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43207
    (614) 645-5220
  • Near East: 1393 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43205
    (614) 645-7131
  • North: 248 East Eleventh Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43201
    (614) 724-1900 or (614) 724-5566
  • Far East: 2500 Park Crescent Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43232
    (614) 724-0100

Columbus Department of Neighborhoods Office: (614) 645-1993
311 Customer Service Center: (614) 645-3111
columbus.gov/Community/Department-of-Neighborhoods/Area-Commission-Map/Neighborhood-Liaisons

City of Columbus New American Program

This program was created by the City of Columbus Department of Neighborhoods to give a voice to refugees and immigrants living in Columbus. This office provides interpretation and translation services for all City departments and collaborates with community partners on projects for New Americans. The New American Leadership Academy (NALA) is a year-long leadership and professional development program focused on civic engagement for New American residents. The program includes mentorship, lectures on government and public policy, engagement with community leaders, and completion of a civic engagement project. Applications typically open in the fall.
1410 Cleveland Ave, Columbus, Ohio 43211
(614) 645-1993
New American Resource Guide: columbus.gov/files/sharedassets/city/v/1/neighborhood/nala-2024-cohort-resource-guide.pdf
Main Website: columbus.gov/Community/Department-of-Neighborhoods/New-Resident-Information/The-New-American-Program

Columbus Literacy Council (CLC)

Offers a variety of free education programs for youth and adults. Adult classes include literacy (financial, workplace and technology literacy), citizenship classes, GED test preparation, and language (ESL/ESOL, Spanish, ASL).They also provide career coaching, supportive services for life transitions or re-entry to the community, supportive services for immigrants and New Americans, and help with utilities. Youth programs include MARVEL*US after school program for TANF-eligible youth ages 5-13, AMP for ages 16-18, and Pathways to Promise for youth ages 13-15 at risk of entering the juvenile justice system.

  • Whitehall: 1394 Courtright Road, Columbus, Ohio 43227
  • Reynoldsburg: 5825 Chantry Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43232
  • Cincinnati: 6644 Coffey Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45230

(614) 282-7661
clcworks.org

Columbus Public Health (CPH) Resource Lists

These neighborhood resource lists are extremely helpful in finding resources near you. They provide detailed listings of free and low cost health care, vision care, dental care, prescription help, food pantries, transportation, job help, pregnancy resources and much more. They are updated annually and reviewed by the Columbus Public Health social work team. Please note that CPH does not provide direct monetary assistance, but these lists are helpful in finding community agencies that do provide this assistance. All lists updated 2025.
Food Pantries & Soup Kitchens
Food Pantries & Soup Kitchens – French
Food Pantries & Soup Kitchens – Haitian Creole
Food Pantries & Soup Kitchens – Somali
Food Pantries & Soup Kitchens – Spanish

Health Care (Free Clinics, Dental, Vision & Women’s Health)
Emergency Resources (Housing, Food, Utilities, Safety & Clothing)
Agencies Serving Immigrants & Refugees
Job Help (Unemployment, Looking for a Job, Online Searches)
Pregnancy Resources (WIC, Healthcare, Utilities, Baby Supplies, Diaper Banks, Housing, & Parenting Classes)
Prescription Help (Reduced Cost Prescriptions, Discount Programs & Medicaid Info)
Programs & Resources for Seniors
Mental Health & Substance Use Resources (Crisis Lines, Healthcare, Support Groups, Disposal Box Locations)

240 Parsons Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 645-6807
columbus.gov/Services/Public-Health/Find-Health-Care-Resources/Health-Resources-List

Community Refugee & Immigration Services (CRIS)

Nonprofit serving refugees and immigrants in Central Ohio. Services include English as a Second Language (ESL) classes, job readiness classes, case management, and referrals to additional community resources. Additional programs include:

  • Newcomer Support Services: Available for Ukrainians, Cubans, Haitians, and other ORR-eligible populations to receive support with things like enrolling in school, public benefits, and scheduling medical appointments.
  • Legal Clinics: Help with immigration legal matters such as work authorizations, asylum, naturalization, and more. Legal Clinics are available once per month specifically for residents from Ukraine, Haiti, or Refugees filing for permanent resident status.
  • Early Refugee School Impact (ERSI): Provides free early childhood development and educational support for children ages 0-5.
  • Community Connectors: Provides 1:1 mentorship New American youth and adults.
  • Parenting for Limited English Proficient (LEP): Provides in-home parenting support for families with children ages 0-18 in English, Somali, and Spanish.
  • Victims of Crime Assistance (VOCA): Provides confidential and trauma-informed services such as help filing compensation claims, assistance in court, and referrals in English, Spanish, Somali, Nepali, Hindi, and Arabic.
  • CRIS Wellness Clinic: Provides individual, group, and family counseling for ORR-eligible populations or those recovering from trauma. Contact the organization or visit the website for additional program details and eligibility requirements.

Main Office: 4645 Executive Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43220
CRIS Wellness Clinic: 1520 Old Henderson Road, Columbus, Ohio 43220
(614) 235-5747
crisohio.org

Dominican Learning Center

Professional and educational learning center for adults ages 18+. Students are not charged for tutoring services, but those who are financially able are asked to purchase basic texts and materials. Courses include English as a Second Language (ESL/ESOL); GED high school equivalency in English or Spanish; Adult Basic Education for those looking to improve reading, writing, and math skills; and Citizenship Test Preparation.
672 South Third Street, Columbus, Ohio 43206
(614) 444-7330
domlearningcenter.org

Ethiopian Tewahedo Social Services (ETSS)

Helps immigrants and refugees from all countries establish roots and gain self-sufficiency in Central Ohio. They offer job training, resettlement support, mentoring, English language classes (ESL), case management for victims of domestic violence and more. Youth programs include after school tutoring, Pathways 2 Success paid work training program for ages 16-18, wraparound coaching and support services for ages 14-18, scholarship opportunities, and summer camp.
4300 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43123
(614) 252-5362
ethiotss.org

Festa

Faith-based organization supporting families impacted by poverty and celebrating cultural diversity. They offer free youth and adult programming, including a three generation family English-learning/ESL program for all ages. Youth programs include the Excelerate young entrepreneur program for children K-8, and a free summer lunch camp. Contact the organization for registration details. They also accept youth and adult volunteers.
Upper Arlington Lutheran Church (UALC) at Mill Run
3500 Mill Run Drive, Hilliard, Ohio 43026
(614) 586-7939
wearefesta.org

Franklin County Department of Job & Family Services (JFS)

Provides financial, medical, and social service programs in Franklin County. Programs include cash assistance (Ohio Works First, LEAP), help paying for child care, food assistance (Ohio Direction Card/SNAP/EBT, WIC), medical assistance (Medicaid, Healthy Start), and Ohio Means Jobs assistance for job seekers. Emergency Assistance (PRC) funds may be requested for a maximum of $2,000 to use towards overdue rent and utility bills, car repairs; or damages as a result of a natural disaster, housefire, or flood. Visit the website to view specific eligibility requirements for each program, and to start your application. People outside of Franklin County should visit their local county Department of Job and Family Services.

  • East Opportunity Center: 1055 Mount Vernon Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43203
  • Northland Opportunity Center: 1721 Northland Park Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43229
  • West Opportunity Center: 314 North Wilson Road, Columbus, Ohio 43204

(614) 233-2000
Customer Access Center: (844) 640-6446
Medicaid Transportation: (614) 233-2381
Ohio Medicaid Consumer Hotline: (800) 324-8680
Workforce Development: (614) 212-1800
Ohio Direction EBT Card Assistance: (866) 386-3071
Find Your Local ODJFS Office: jfs.ohio.gov/about/local-agencies-directory
Self-Service Ohio Benefits Portal (Apply Here): ssp.benefits.ohio.gov/apspssp/ssp.portal
Main Website: jfs.franklincountyohio.gov

Fugees Academy Columbus

Non-profit network of schools dedicated to educating refugee students and English learners. Their academies provide refugee youth ages 11 and up year-round education, soccer programming, tutoring, leadership training, and other resources for free. They provide training and professional development for educators to learn their trauma-informed English immersion model.
(678) 358-0547
fugeesfamily.org

Jewish Family Services (JFS)

Helps individuals and families achieve economic self-sufficiency. Services include job search assistance, mental health counseling, and case management to help clients find jobs, stable housing, and wellness resources. Business services include recruitment and referral of job candidates, networking opportunities, and cultural competency counseling. They offer 1:1 digital coaching, Digital Skills Hub courses, and digital skills workshops to help clients navigate technology. The Financial Empowerment Center offers free one-on-one financial counseling in-person or online for adults in Central Ohio. Confidential mental health counseling is available with licensed therapists; they accept private insurance, self-pay, Medicare, and Medicaid. They also offer specialized services for refugees, New Americans, Holocaust survivors, and older adults/senior citizens. Rent assistance may be available depending on funding. JFS is open to the Jewish and non-Jewish communities.
1070 College Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43209
(614) 231-1890
jfscolumbus.org

Legal Aid Society of Southeast and Central Ohio (LASCO: Formerly LASC)

Provides free civil legal assistance and guidance to low income residents and senior citizens of Columbus and Central Ohio. Legal Aid attorneys may be able to help you with the following types of cases or legal problems: consumer law, immigration, family law, housing, public benefits, reentry, seniors, tax law, veterans, and education. Their website also has a page of Resources with easy-to-read information on these topics.
lasco.org

  • Columbus Office: Serves Franklin and Madison county
    1108 City Park Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43206
    Intake: (888) 246-4420
    General Inquiries: (614) 224-8374 or (877) 224-8374
  • Marion Office: Serves Delaware, Marion, Morrow and Union county
    150 Oak Street, Marion, Ohio 43302
    (740) 383-2161 or (888) 301-2411

Lutheran Social Services (LSS) 211 Central Ohio

Faith-based organization providing a wide range of services across Ohio. Services include Faith Mission homeless shelter, food, health care, affordable senior living and domestic violence help. Visit the website for detailed program information and for programs in Fairfield County. The LSS 211 Information and Referral network can connect you to food pantries and other social services across Franklin County and Ohio.

  • LSS 211 Referral Line & Online Database
    Call 211 or (614) 221-2255
    lssnetworkofhope.org/211centralohio
  • Central Ohio Main Office
    1105 Schrock Rd, Columbus, OH 43229
    (614) 228-5200
    lssnetworkofhope.org
  • Champion Avenue Food Pantry
    1460 South Champion Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43206
    (877) 577-6325
    All Pantry & Produce Locations: lssnetworkofhope.org/foodpantries/locations
    Pantry Registration: lssfoodpantries.org
  • LSS Health Center
    Offers primary care, dental, vision, HIV/STD testing, pharmacy, behavioral healthcare, and substance use disorder (SUD/MAT) treatment.
    245 North Grant Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
    (614) 224-0747
    lssnetworkofhope.org/lsshealthcenter
  • Faith Mission Franklin County Homeless Shelter
    Must call Homeless Hotline in advance to be assigned a bed: (614) 274-7000
    217 North Grant Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
    Men’s Shelter: 599 East Eighth Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43201
    lssnetworkofhope.org/faithmission
  • Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF)
    Offers emergency shelter beds for veterans and help with housing stability for veteran families.
    (614) 224-6617
  • CHOICES Domestic Violence Services
    Offers temporary housing, counseling, legal services, and peer support for survivors of domestic violence.
    24-hour Domestic Violence Crisis Line: (614) 224-4663
    General: (614) 224-7200
    lssnetworkofhope.org/choices/services

Muslim Family Services (MFS) of Ohio

Social service agency established by Muslim women to help women and families overcome challenges. They support the Muslim community in Central Ohio by offering referrals, and material support. Services include basic needs assistance (food, housing referrals), mediation and conflict resolution services, interpretation and paperwork assistance, resettlement support, ESL classes, job skills training, and Janazah (Muslim funeral) services. They host seasonal giving programs for school supplies, and Eid and Ramadan meals.
4900 Reed Road, Columbus, Ohio 43220
(614) 470-2848
wp.mfsohio.org/let-us-help

MY Project USA

A faith-based organization working to protect and empower youth and families in underserved neighborhoods. They offer a free healthcare clinic, food pantry, parent education, and community events. Their website has educational resources for parents on internet safety, abuse, and more. Youth programming includes a reading program for grades 1-9, youth soccer league, and free counseling and mentoring. The MY Helpline is a referral service for survivors and victims of gangs, trafficking, drugs, domestic violence, sexual abuse, and violence in Central Ohio.
3275 Sullivant Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43204
(614) 905-0977
MY Helpline: (614) 971-9375
myprojectusa.org

National Immigration Law Center Resources

A national organization advancing the rights and opportunities of low-income immigrants. Visit the resources page on their website for guides, toolkits and fact sheets available in many languages. Resources include Know Your Rights in multiple languages, Safety Tips for the Haitian Community, and more.
3450 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90010
(510) 663-8282
nilc.org/resources

Noor Islamic Cultural Center (NICC)

Faith-based organization serving Columbus’ Muslim community, and the community at large. They offer programs for Muslim youth year-round; including boys’ and girls’ groups for fellowship and volunteering, Quran study groups, ACT/SAT prep, interscholastic competition, running club, and more. Services for adults include spiritual and marriage counseling, and mutual aid for financial difficulties. Find program details and financial help form on the website.
5001 Wilcox Road, Dublin, Ohio 43016
5550 Britton Parkway, Hilliard, Ohio 43026
(614) 527-7777
noorohio.org 

North Community Counseling Centers (NCCC)

Program: Provides medical/psychiatric care, case management; individual, group, and family counseling; residential care for adults with psychiatric disabilities, and substance use disorder (SUD) treatment for adults including medication-assisted treatment (MAT). The Center for New Americans program offers culturally appropriate case management and wellness services for individuals who are new to the country. They also offer specialized programs for women through the Women’s Empowerment Program.
Eligibility: Serves adolescents, adults, individuals, and families, ages 12+
Cost: Government insurance (Medicaid, Molina, CareSource), Private insurance on a case-by-case basis and Self-pay (sliding scale fees based on income).
Referral: Individuals may refer themselves or be referred by a professional. Visit the website and complete the Intake Form to get started.

  • North: 6037 Cleveland Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43231
    (614) 267-7003
  • Bridge: 4897 Karl Road, Columbus, Ohio 43229
    (614) 846-2588
  • Westgate: 3556 Sullivant Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43204
    (614) 827-1307
  • The Center for New Americans: 1299 McNaughten Road, Columbus, Ohio 43232
    (614) 582-2368

Central Intake: (614) 261-3196
northcommunity.com

Ohio Department of Job & Family Services (ODJFS): Ohio Refugee Services Program

Ohio services and benefits created to help those legally defined as refugees, asylees, Cuban/Haitian entrants, foreign-born victims of human trafficking, or secondary migrants. Services include health screenings, cash assistance, employability services, school integration services, and support services for refugees age 60+. Refugee Medical Assistance (RMA) provides Medicaid coverage for refugees during their first 12 months of living in the United States. Applications for benefits can be made through a local county department of Job and Family Services. Visit the website for additional program details.
(614) 466-4815
Ohio Refugee Services Website: jfs.ohio.gov/cash-food-and-refugee-assistance/refugee-services/information-for-refugees/about-refugee-services
Benefits Application Portal: ssp.benefits.ohio.gov/apspssp/ssp.portal
Franklin County Job and Family Services: cap4kids.org/columbus/franklin-county-jfs

OSU Free Clinics

A student-run, free  medical clinic. All services are free, no insurance or citizenship status needed. Services are provided for under-resourced patients regardless of income. They offer quality care for those who do not qualify for any other programs. Patients are seen at the Rardin Family Practice Center at 2231 North High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43201.

  • Columbus Free Clinic: Services include primary care, pharmacy, lab/blood tests, and specialty clinics (gynecology, psychiatry, dietitian, neurology, gender-affirming care, occupational and physical therapy). Visit the website to view upcoming clinic dates and to schedule an appointment.
    (614) 404-8417
    columbusfreeclinic.com
  • Clínica Latina (Spanish Free Clinic): Offers care for Spanish-speaking patients. Services include primary care, lab/blood tests and pharmacy. They offer specialty clinics once per month for kids/pediatrics, dental, gynecology, psychiatry, and dermatology. All patients are seen regardless of language, race, income, or immigration status. Call to schedule an appointment.
  • (614) 349-1038
    clinicalatina.com
  • Asian Health Initiative: Offers general healthcare services for Asian American and Asian immigrant patients. They also specialize in caring for patients with Hepatitis B and offer a quarterly Hepatitis B clinic. Translation services are available. Call to schedule an appointment.
    (614) 216-9730
    ahifreeclinic.wixsite.com/site
  • Noor Free Clinic/Muslim Clinic of Ohio: Provides care from volunteer Muslim nurses and physicians. Services include primary care, lab/blood tests, free mammograms, and referrals for specialty care. Call to schedule an appointment.
    (614) 516-3075
    noorcommunityclinic.weebly.com
  • Rainbow Clinic: Provides LGBTQIA+ healthcare in a non-judgmental space. Services include primary care, gynecology, urology, STI/HIV testing, PrEP, mental health referrals, labs, medication refills, and transportation. Rainbow Clinic is offered twice a month. Visit the website to schedule an appointment.
    columbusfreeclinic.com/specialty-clinics

Our Helpers

An immigrant and women-led non-profit improving the lives of immigrant and refugee families in Franklin County. Services for adults include case management/eviction prevention, ESL/ESOL classes, and mental health first aid classes. The food pantry/Community Free Store is available for income-eligible families by appointment only, call to make an appointment. Youth programs include free summer camp opportunities, and Our Light Program for boys ages 17-22. The organization also accepts volunteers.
2021 East Dublin Granville Road, Suite 197, Columbus, Ohio 43229
(614) 733-9555
ourhelpers.org

Refugee Welcome Collective State Resource Map

Dedicated to improving outcomes for refugees resettled in the United States. Anyone can use the State Resource Map to find information on cash and food assistance, healthcare, programs for English language learners, job search assistance, and other important resources specific to your state.
Resource Map: refugeewelcome.org/state-resources

Rides 4 Refugees

Charitable organization helping Central Ohio refugees with vehicle ownership. They accept donations and will repair or sell donated vehicles. Services for refugee clients include matching up to $4,000 towards a vehicle, assistance with inspections and the vehicle-buying process, driver training, insurance support, limited warranty on vehicles, and roadside assistance. Clients must be referred to the organization through a Central Ohio resettlement agency and meet income guidelines. Call or go online for details.
25 North Street, Dublin, Ohio 43017
(614) 706-6123
rides4refugees.us

Riverview International Center (RIC)

Resource Center assisting with basic needs for New Americans. Services include ESL/ESOL classes, employment services, computer literacy, citizenship assistance, homework and reading help, a monthly legal clinic, and summer programming for elementary and middle school children. Their office welcomes walk-ins for any questions about navigating life in America.
1520 Old Henderson Road, Columbus, OH 43220
(614) 427-3368
riverviewinternationalcenter.org

Sesame Street in the Communities

Provides fun and educational resources for families from the child educators behind the Sesame Street show. Topics range from ABCs & 123s to tough topics that affect children’s lives; including health and wellness, social-emotional skills, trauma, race, grief, and more. They offer free videos, games, and worksheets for children to explore; and resources for parents and educators.

Sesame Workshop Resources for Families Website: sesameworkshop.org/resources
Kids’ Website: sesamestreet.org/home

U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS)

This office oversees lawful immigration to the United States. Their website has information about immigration and citizenship laws and processes, registration forms, and fees. You can also use the website to find office locations near you and to keep track of your case. To speak to an immigration officer, you must schedule an appointment by calling or registering online.
Columbus Office: 395 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
USCIS Live Assistance: (800) 375-5283
Request an Appointment: my.uscis.gov/en/appointment/v2
uscis.gov

US Together

Mutual assistance agency serving refugees and immigrants in Ohio. Services include ESL classes, interpreter services, intensive case management, comprehensive care for victims of crime or gender violence, citizenship tutoring, healthcare access, and more.
ustogether.us

  • Columbus: 1415 East Dublin-Granville Road, Columbus, Ohio 43229
    (614) 437-9941
  • Cleveland: 2800 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44115
    (216) 456-9630
  • Toledo: 3450 West Central Avenue, Toledo, Ohio 43606
    (419) 469-2529

USA.gov

An official guide to federal information and services. Use the website to find helpful, easy-to-read information on topics like how the government works, government benefits, disability services, immigration and citizenship, taxes, legal issues and more. The website can also be used to register to vote, print tax forms or check on a tax refund, file a complaint, and other government-related tasks.
(844) 872-4681
usa.gov

Vineyard Community Center

Faith-based organization providing a variety of services for families. Youth services include an early childhood center for ages 6 week-PreK, after-school and summer programs for K-12 and youth sports/fitness programs. Adult education programs include GED prep classes, English as a Second Language (ESOL/ESL), recovery groups, parenting programs, financial counseling, career development services, art classes, and Red Cross CPR classes. They also offer a free health clinic, free legal clinic, immigration counseling services, and financial counseling. The food pantry serves zip codes 43229, 43224, 43231 and requires registration for a shopping appointment.
Food Pantry: 4664 Cleveland Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43231
Community Center: 6000 Cooper Road, Westerville, Ohio 43081
(614) 259-5238
vineyardcommunitycenter.org

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